How to use AI to write developer content

Answer: YOU DON’T

Seriously - don’t do it. At least the very least, don't write entire blogs with AI. Software engineers see right through AI-generated content, and there are already enough garbage blogs on the Internet. Just don’t do it. If you have an idea, tutorial, blog, or something else you want to share with software engineers, take the time to actually think through it and do the work yourself to present the idea. Software engineers will appreciate it, and the Internet will appreciate it.

There are other ways to use AI for content creation

There are plenty of ways to use AI tools to help with writing that do not do the work for you. If you want to make good developer content, you should do the heavy lifting and rely on AI to help fill the gaps. Here are some suggestions that have worked for us at Doppler:

1. Use AI for research, not writing entire sections

• Do this: Let AI help with gathering research and outlining. You can use AI to quickly gather relevant data, statistics, or summaries from various sources. This can help shape your blog’s direction and support your arguments.
• Not that: Don't let AI churn out entire sections of text. Relying on AI to write paragraphs in their entirety can result in generic content, losing the personal touch and authenticity that readers value.

2. Brainstorm ideas with AI, not rely on it for creativity

• Do this: Use AI as a brainstorming partner. For example, if you’re stuck on a topic or headline, AI can provide a variety of suggestions to get your creative juices flowing.
• Not that: Avoid using AI to come up with all the creative aspects of your post. Your personal anecdotes, unique insights, and experiences are what make your blog stand out.

3. Optimize grammar and style, not over-autocorrect

• Do this: AI-based grammar tools can refine your writing by catching mistakes and suggesting stylistic improvements. They can help ensure clarity without altering the core of your message.
• Not that: Avoid over-editing your content to the point where it no longer sounds like you. Let your natural tone shine through, even if it includes quirks and colloquialisms.

4. Use AI to generate visuals or code snippets, not entire blog layouts

• Do this: AI can be a fantastic assistant for generating simple visuals, diagrams, or code snippets to support your writing. Use these capabilities to make your post more engaging and informative.
• Not that: Don't have AI design the entire layout or format the whole post. Personalizing the structure and design of your blog shows care and attention, enhancing the reader experience.

5. Use AI for proofreading, not as the sole editor

• Do this: AI proofreading tools are great for catching typos and suggesting improvements. Use them to polish your content before publishing.
• Not that: Relying solely on AI for editing can result in overlooked nuances. A human review is necessary to ensure that the tone, flow, and message align with your goals.

By using AI as a tool rather than a replacement, you can maintain the authenticity and originality that makes your content resonate.

Do you have other ideas? We want to hear them. Please send an email to chandler.mayo@doppler.com