I try to avoid AI — but these 5 exceptions really do make all the difference
I don't let AI think for me, but I do let it fix these 5 real-world problems.
Mostly, the author tries to avoid AI. They enjoy problem-solving and hands-on approaches, finding the challenge enjoyable. However, there are times when stubbornness becomes a bottleneck. The author turns to AI when they hit a wall, obvious solutions have failed, and they need an immediate solution. Here are five specific moments when self-reliance hit its limit and AI helped:
1. Emergency kitchen math: When baking without scales, the author needed to convert 3/4 cup of sugar to tablespoons. ChatGPT delivered the conversion in seconds, allowing them to create banana bread without alternative solutions.
2. Spatial design and furniture scale: When visualizing furniture placement, the author uploaded a photo of their living room to AI. They asked for a tall, dark-wood corner bookcase in the far left corner with shelves filled with books and decor. This mockup helped them understand whether the piece would work, saving them from an expensive regrettable purchase.
3. Dispute and tenancy appeals: When faced with a landlord withholding deposit money for cleaning fees, the author uploaded lease agreements and tenant rights guidelines. They asked the model to review the tenancy agreement, landlord's deduction list, and cross-reference any unenforceable clauses. It flagged three specific overreaches and wrote a clear, formal response citing relevant protections.
4. Haircut and style previews: When unsure about a new haircut, the author uploaded a selfie and asked AI for suitable shades of expresso brown. This tailored reference helped them feel confident during their appointment, avoiding disappointment from an unsuitable result.
5. DIY tool setup: A friend gifted the author duplicates of Mini Bratz collectibles, and they decided to turn them into earrings. They used AI to analyze their disassembled drill parts and a Mini Bratz box photo. AI provided precise instructions on loading the bit into the drill and marking the hole on the doll, enabling them to create earrings in a few hours.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Guide's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
