How to Write with an LLM

Two simple rules can help you streamline and enhance your writing using language models (LLMs) without making it bland or unoriginal. Writing about writing can seem like bragging, as readers will perceive any mention of good writing skills as self-aggrandizing. This piece aims to provide straightforward advice that is both important and easy to follow.

However, you must recognize that LLMs can be detected in the parts per trillion of your writing. To avoid this, you need to write for yourself first. While LLMs are incredibly useful, they should be employed more like a copyeditor than a ghostwriter.

The first rule is to refuse any word or phrase an LLM suggests. The problem with LLM-generated content is that it tends to write in a style similar to magazine headlines, which is not ideal for conveying your personal voice. By refusing these suggestions, you ensure that your writing remains unique and genuine.

The second rule is to be cautious about the model's praise and encouragement. While LLMs are skilled at spotting problems in your writing, they often tend to overpraise your overall structure or specific elements, such as metaphors or pop culture references. You should ignore this praise and focus on editing and improving your work, rather than relying on the model's encouragement.

One practical way to avoid these pitfalls is to forbid the model from providing encouragement and to remain vigilant about praise. LLMs are excellent at detecting issues in your writing, such as overuse of passive voice, nominalization, repetition of phrases, or excessive use of certain words. By mechanically identifying these problems and rewriting paragraphs to improve clarity, you can create a more polished piece of writing.

For a more systematic approach, Richard Gabriel's book "Style: Lessons in Clarity and Grace" is highly recommended. It can help you develop a better understanding of writing techniques and improve your editing skills. By applying the principles outlined in this book and using LLMs as a writing workshop tool, you can create high-quality, engaging content that stands out from the crowd.