With the recent advances in AI technology, it’s tempting to assume apps like Grammarly, Quillbot, or ChatGPT can be just as effective at copyediting as human editors. After all, a lot of it is cheap, fairly reliable, and fast. And there’s no denying it can be helpful in the brainstorming stages or when checking for mechanical errors. But before you decide to hand your manuscript over to an AI bot you might want to consider three compelling reasons why having a human editor is far superior.

Contextual Understanding:

A human editor has the crucial ability to grasp the context and nuances of your writing. They can discern the tone, style, and intentions behind your words, which will ensure the editing process is not just about correcting grammar and punctuation, but also about preserving your unique voice and message. Because AI bots lack this nuanced understanding, they may make changes that alter your intended meaning, potentially compromising the quality of your writing.

Creativity and Critical Thinking:

Effective editing involves more than just rule-based corrections; it requires creativity and critical thinking. Human editors can suggest improvements in sentence structure, flow, and organization, enhancing the overall readability and impact of your book. They can identify inconsistencies in plot or character development, helping you create a more coherent narrative. AI bots, on the other hand, rely on algorithms and predefined rules, often missing the creative aspect of editing and offering generic suggestions.

Error Detection Limitations:

AI bots may excel at spotting common grammar and spelling errors, but they are not infallible. They may struggle with complex sentence structures, idiomatic expressions, or industry-specific terminology. Human editors, on the other hand, bring years of experience and a deep understanding of language nuances to the table. They can catch subtler errors that AI might overlook and offer valuable insights to improve the overall quality of your writing.

While AI technology continues to advance, it cannot replace the expertise and contextual understanding that a human editor brings to the work.

When it comes to editing your book, choosing a real editor over an AI bot will go a long way toward retaining the authenticity, creativity, and quality of your writing.

Staci Frenes is the owner and chief editor at Grammar Boss Editing.

Contact us now for a free sample edit of your book, article, or web copy.