"It Should Be Quick Since You're Using AI"

TL;DR: Generative AI amplifies expertise, it doesn't substitute it. AI does not make you an expert As AI becomes more available I want to address the subtle but crucial misconception that AI allows anyone to do anything. Reality (as usual) is more nuanced. AI can significantly lower friction, speed up workflows, and expand what people are capable of producing, but it doesn't replace domain knowledge or professional judgment. Expecting it to do so creates unrealistic expectations for individuals, teams, and organizations. AI is most effective when it acts as an assistant. Having access to AI does not suddenly confer professional skill. Examples: You're not suddenly an expert data scientist simply because you've asked AI to generate statistical summaries. You don't have the depth of knowledge required to write usable technical manuals just because an LLM can draft documentation. You're not a professional video editor because you can generate a 2-minute video from a prompt. In each of…