AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini are transforming the way we create content. From social media captions to blog posts and funding applications, AI can help generate ideas and draft copy at a rapid pace. But with speed often comes compromise. While AI can sound fluent, it doesn’t consistently deliver content that is useful, insightful, or correct.
If you’re using AI to support your writing, great, but you still need to read carefully, edit critically, and ensure the content serves its intended purpose. More funders, publishers, and employers are scrutinising submissions for signs of AI use, and unedited output could damage your credibility.
Here are 10 signs that your AI-generated content might be falling short, and what to do to improve its quality.
1. American Spelling in Australian Content
AI tools often default to American English unless instructed otherwise. This means spelling like “organize” instead of “organise,” or “center” instead of “centre.” For Australian audiences, this can instantly signal that the content wasn’t crafted with them in mind.
Fix it: Always prompt your AI tool to use “Australian English,” and review for regional spelling consistency.
2. Repetitive phrasing and predictable language
AI is trained to predict common word sequences, so you’ll often see phrases like “a nuanced understanding of…” or “it’s important to note that…” repeated across different outputs. This results in content that feels templated and uninspired.
Fix it: Look for overused phrases and replace them with more specific or original language that fits your voice and purpose.
3. Generic and vague introductions AI tends to start with broad, safe openers like “In today’s world…” or “With the rise of technology…” These introductions lack engagement and rarely draw the reader in.
Fix it: Replace vague openings with relevant statistics, personal insights, or bold statements that grab attention.
4. Emotionally flat tone
AI struggles to convey genuine empathy or emotion. Even when discussing sensitive topics, it often delivers content that feels neutral or disconnected.
Fix it: Infuse your own voice, values, or personal perspective. Readers connect with content that feels authentic.
5. Incorrect or Misleading Facts
AI content can sound confident but still be factually wrong. Since it doesn’t understand truth, it generates text based on patterns, and it can make up details or blend inaccurate information.
Fix it: Fact-check all data, dates, and claims against reliable sources. If your content falls into a sensitive category (e.g., legal, medical, financial), conduct a second review.
6. Outdated References
AI tools trained on older data may include outdated facts or examples. For instance, referring to policies that no longer exist or quoting pre-2021 figures as if they were current.
Fix it: Verify dates and references. Replace or update examples to reflect what’s happening now.
7. Inconsistent capitalisation
You might notice AI randomly capitalising words like “Team,” “Strategy,” or “Marketing Plan.” These inconsistencies can make your content feel clunky or unprofessional. This is especially relevant with headings and subheadings.
Fix it: Do a thorough style check, especially on headings and job titles. Consistent grammar shows attention to detail.
8. Em Dash overuse
The em dash (—) is frequently used by AI to join ideas. While useful in moderation, overuse can make writing feel disjointed or overly dramatic.
Fix it: Vary your punctuation. Use full stops or commas where they better suit the rhythm and clarity of the sentence.
9. Poor Structure and Flow
AI-generated paragraphs can feel like a patchwork, each one making sense in isolation, but together lacking cohesion. Transitions between ideas may be weak or missing.
Fix it: Reorganise for flow. Use headings, topic sentences, and transitions to guide the reader clearly from one idea to the next.
10. Shifting Tone and Style
AI doesn’t always maintain a consistent voice. You might find a paragraph starts formally and ends with casual slang, or shifts from academic to conversational without reason.
Fix it: Read your content aloud. Smooth out tone inconsistencies and align the style with your audience and purpose.
Conclusion: AI is a tool and not a substitute for thinking and creativity
Using AI to assist your writing is smart, but relying on raw output is risky. To maintain quality, credibility, and audience trust, always review, refine, and personalise your content. The more intentional you are in shaping the final piece, the more value AI can bring to your workflow.
If you need help creating standout content that strikes a balance between speed and substance, please get in touch with our team.
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