Using AI Without Uploading a Thing
I’ve recently attended several webinars on using AI in editing, and one concern keeps coming up: editors are wary of AI because they don’t want to risk compromising their clients’ or their organization’s work. They’re not comfortable uploading work into what can feel like an AI black hole.
This is a completely valid concern, but it doesn’t mean you have to write off AI as an editing tool. Here are 10 ways I use AI as an editor without uploading client files:
Verifying accuracy of statistics/facts. I often use two different AI tools—Claude and ChatGPT—to check facts and ask for reputable sources to back them up.
Rephrasing editorial comments to soften my feedback. Every editor knows that they shouldn’t always write what they are thinking 😊.
Checking whether something follows CMOS style. Yes, CMOS has an online system, but I’m sure I’m not the only one who finds the search function a bit clunky. I’ve used ChatGPT to locate where a rule is listed in CMOS and then confirmed it directly. Often, that’s faster than searching CMOS itself.
Brainstorming headings and subheadings. AI gives me many suggestions in nanoseconds; I limit it to five just so I don’t have too many suggestions.
Making headings parallel in structure. If I have three or four subheadings and want them all to start with gerunds, AI can revise them for consistency (or give me examples to tweak).
Drafting or refining memos to your client. I usually have a running Word document of notes for my author or client. When it’s time to turn those into a coherent memo, I use AI to help me shape the structure.
Double-checking grammar rules I’m unsure of. Every editor has their weak spots, and I find it helpful to check my understanding before making a change.
Explaining a concept I don’t understand. Or using AI to help me explain a grammar rule to an author in a way that actually makes sense.
Writing or debugging Word macros. Need a macro that highlights every instance of multiculturalism in a 200-page document? AI can help. I’ve also used ChatGPT to troubleshoot macros that weren’t working the way they should.
Converting a reference to follow whatever style I am following, for example, from APA style to CMOS style.
If you’ve been hesitant to experiment with AI, I hope this post shows you can use it as a tool in your editorial toolkit. Try one or two of the ideas above and see what works for you.
PS. I wrote this blog myself—the em dashes are all mine—and, yes, I used AI to help me make this blog post better!
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