Ethical Use of AI in Writing: Where the Line Gets Crossed

Transparency is the boundary. Cross it, and you’re in the wrong zone.

“But did you write it yourself?”

It’s a question I’ve heard countless times over the years — and right now, it’s buzzing again. Only this time, the concern isn’t about ghostwriters or research assistants. It’s about AI in writing.

As someone who’s been writing and collaborating on books for two decades, here’s my take: I’ve never written a book completely by myself. And honestly? I’d consider it foolish to try.

Writing Has Never Been a Solo Sport

Over the years, I’ve relied on all kinds of support:

– Interns and researchers to chase down data

– Fresh-eyed editors to spot what I’ve missed

– Junior writers to turn rough concepts into structured bullet points

– My husband (a marketing and biz dev wizard) to review my website copy

– Business coaches to help me clarify my brand and offerings

– Smart friends to poke holes in a wobbly premise

None of them wrote my books for me. But none of them were optional, either. Writing a book — especially while running a business, or relocating that business across continents — is a complex, multi-stage process. Pretending it’s a one-person job is a romantic notion, but it’s not a realistic one.

So… Can You Use AI?

When authors ask me, “Can I use AI in my writing process?” my answer is simple: Of course — if it helps.

Just like any other tool, use it thoughtfully. Know what you’re asking of it. Stay honest about where it ends and you begin.

AI is not the enemy. The idea that we have to do it all alone — that’s the enemy.

Where the Line Gets Crossed

That said, transparency matters. Using AI to brainstorm angles, summarize research, or help you get unstuck? Great. Passing off AI-generated text as your own original thinking — without review, revision, or ownership? That’s a different story.

It’s like a professor publishing a paper their research assistant wrote and taking all the credit. That’s not “getting help.” That’s not using help — that’s claiming credit where credit is not due.

The Bottom Line

Writers have always had help — from editors to researchers to trusted colleagues. AI is simply the newest member of that team. The key is the same as it’s always been: keep the standards high, keep the process transparent, and keep the tools in perspective.

Photo by cottonbro studio