How to Write with an LLM
Thomas Ptacek publishes a method for LLM-assisted writing: never adopt suggested words and forbid model encouragement to preserve author voice.
Thomas Ptacek outlines two rules for using LLMs as copyeditors: never use a single word a model suggests, and forbid encouragement that reinforces first-draft impulses. He recommends running model passes to flag passive voice, repetition, and misplaced paragraphs, and comparing rewrites with a fresh-context model to avoid bias. He also recommends the book 'Style: Lessons in Clarity and Grace' and mentions building a small tool to manage context-free copyediting comparisons.
- Rule 1: never use any word or phrase an LLM suggests.
- Rule 2: forbid model encouragement to avoid reinforcing first drafts.
- Use models to flag passive voice, repetition, and paragraph placement.
- Recommends 'Style: Lessons in Clarity and Grace' for systematic editing.
- Author built a tool for context-free rewrite comparisons.
- AI models
- Thomas Ptacek
From the original article
6 min read at sockpuppet.org
Two simple rules that let LLMs streamline and improve your writing without pasteurizing and jacking it with corn syrup. It’s tricky to write about writing. It comes across as a brag; you’re implying that you write well.
By joeriddles · sockpuppet.org
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