AI: From bench to bot

Recent articles

This column by Tim Requarth explores the promises and pitfalls of artificial-intelligence tools in writing—when they can make writing better, faster and easier, and how to navigate the minefield of possible dangers.

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Keeping it personal: How to preserve your voice when using AI

To harness the workmanlike prose of artificial intelligence while maintaining a recognizable style, use it as an analyzer rather than as a writer.

By Tim Requarth
3 March 2025 | 12 min read
Computer-generated illustration of a black box with many lines coming into its left side and a compressed stream coming out of its right side.

From bench to bot: How important is prompt engineering?

To draft the most effective prompt, assume the stance of teacher.

By Tim Requarth
28 October 2024 | 8 min read
Computer-generated illustration of a pencil.

From bench to bot: Does AI really make you a more efficient writer?

A more significant benefit may lie in improving quality, refining tone and reducing cognitive burden. But beware of bias.

By Tim Requarth
3 September 2024 | 11 min read
Computer-generated illustration of a sheet of paper emanating from a computer screen.

From bench to bot: Boost your writing with AI personas

Asking ChatGPT to review your own grant proposals can help you spot weaknesses.

By Tim Requarth
5 April 2024 | 10 min read
Computer-generated illustration of a three-dimensional box containing letters in a grid pattern.

From bench to bot: How to use AI to structure your writing

When given specific examples, ChatGPT can generate templates to help guide different types of documents.

By Tim Requarth
8 January 2024 | 11 min read
Computer-generated image of a stack of papers.

From bench to bot: How to use AI tools to convert notes into a draft

ChatGPT can capitalize on the highly ordered nature of scientific writing to streamline your writing process.

By Tim Requarth
27 November 2023 | 10 min read
Computer-generated image of a stack of papers.

From bench to bot: A scientist’s guide to AI-powered writing

I was initially skeptical of artificial-intelligence tools such as ChatGPT for scientific writing. But after months of using and teaching generative artificial intelligence, I have come to realize that it has a place in the scientific writer’s tool kit, even if it can’t write that grant for you from scratch.

By Tim Requarth
13 November 2023 | 6 min read

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