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AI Writing spelled out in block letters on a green backdrop

How to write content: Spot and fix common AI mistakes

Last Updated

Originally Published

October 3, 2025

Author

Alethea Spiridon

Associate Content Director

AI tools can speed up your writing process, but they’re not perfect. From repetitive phrasing to off-brand tone, common AI mistakes can weaken your message if left unchecked. In this blog, we’ll show you how to write content that feels polished and professional, by spotting AI slip-ups early and fixing them with a human touch.

AI writing tools are everywhere, and for digital marketers, they've become as common as scheduling apps and analytics dashboards. From whipping up blog outlines to spitting out product descriptions, AI has proven it can save time. 

Here's the twist: while these tools can be sharp, they're not flawless. Some of the most common AI errors can tank readability, muddle messaging, or even harm your brand credibility if left unchecked.

That's where the human touch comes in. By learning to identify AI slip-ups, you can:

  • smooth the rough edges
  • keep your brand voice intact, 
  • and deliver content that resonates with readers instead of sounding like it was drafted by a robot on autopilot.

If you're juggling multiple deadlines, there's always support out there. Many marketers lean on a legitimate essay writing service as a backup resource, making sure quality stays high while timelines stay sane. At the end of the day, strategy and execution both deserve attention. So let's dive into the mistakes AI makes most often and how you can fix them!

AI writing: A tool, not a replacement

AI tools are powerful, especially the ones that offer free AI writing options. They can quickly generate a baseline draft, brainstorm ideas, or create lists that cut your prep time in half. But here's the kicker: "free" doesn't always mean "ready."

Common pitfalls include:

  1. Overly generic text. Drafts often lack depth and unique insights.
  2. Repetition. AI tends to recycle phrases or overuse transitions.
  3. Tone mismatch. Copy can sound stiff.

Pro tip: Treat AI as your intern, not a lead strategist. Use it to get a head start, then layer in your brand's expertise, wit, and personality.

Can you plagiarize yourself? Originality still matters

Here's a question floating around more and more: Can you plagiarize yourself? Surprisingly, yes. Reusing unedited content can trigger plagiarism detectors, a concern for marketers repurposing material.

AI complicates this further. Since it pulls from patterns in its training data, it sometimes spits out passages too close to existing text. For brands, this is risky; it could dilute your authority or create legal headaches.

Here's a quick comparison:

Scenario Safe practice Risky practice
Repurposing a blog into a postRewrite, reframe, update examplesCopy-pasting sections verbatim
Using AI draft suggestions Edit for originality & brand tone Publishing raw AI text without review

Freshness is your friend. Even when repurposing, add new insights, data, or creative framing. That way, your content works harder and avoids raising red flags.

Open AI ChatGPT open on a screen.

Source: Unsplash 

How to train AI to work with you

Even the smartest AI tool can stumble if the input is sloppy. That's why strong prompts are essential. Think of it like giving a contractor directions: vague requests yield vague results. Precise instructions deliver something closer to your vision.

Here are three quick ways to upgrade your AI prompts:

  1. Be specific about audience

    • Weak: "Write a blog about social commerce."
    • Strong: "Write a blog about how social commerce helps niche fashion brands turn Instagram followers into loyal customers."
  2. Set the tone clearly

    • Weak: "Explain social commerce."
    • Strong: "Explain social commerce in a friendly, conversational tone, with practical examples for small business owners."
  3. Request structure

    • Weak: "Write tips for marketers."
    • Strong: "Write five numbered tips for digital marketers on how to use AI tools without losing authenticity."

By learning how to write a prompt strategically, you're not just steering AI; you're protecting your content's value and credibility.

What AI doesn't know about context

AI is trained on vast amounts of data, but it doesn't live in the real world. It doesn't know that your client's audience prefers TikTok to Instagram, or that the latest platform update has already shifted algorithms. It also doesn't understand student-athletes trying to balance scholarships or entrepreneurs juggling side hustles while studying, for example.

This lack of context is why human oversight is non-negotiable. Your insights bring in the nuance AI misses, ensuring campaigns connect with reality, not just with patterns.

FAQs: Quick answers to common AI writing concerns

Is free AI writing good enough for professional work?

Free AI tools can be a solid starting point, especially for brainstorming ideas, building outlines, or overcoming writer’s block. They’re rarely polished enough for professional, client-facing work on their own, though. Always review for tone, accuracy, originality, and depth.

Can you plagiarize yourself when reusing old content?

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Yes. Self-plagiarism is a thing, especially if you republish the same copy across different channels or clients. Search engines can flag duplicate content, which may impact rankings. To stay safe, and keep your audience engaged, refresh older material with updated stats, new insights, and a fresh perspective before reusing it.

What’s the best way to get writing help with AI?

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The secret is in the setup. Provide detailed, specific prompts that outline your audience, goals, and desired tone. Then, treat the AI’s first draft as a springboard, not the final product. Always review for clarity, brand consistency, and factual accuracy. For best results, pair AI efficiency with human editing. That combination keeps your content sharp, trustworthy, and ready for publishing.

What’s the biggest writing mistake AI makes?

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Repetition and lack of originality top the list. AI tends to recycle phrases, overuse certain words, or fall back on clichés. The result? Flat, predictable writing that can turn readers off. Human oversight adds nuance, creativity, and authenticity.

Should I trust AI with brand-sensitive content?

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AI is a great assistant for ideation, outlines, or even early drafts. When it comes to brand-sensitive messaging, such as crisis communications, executive thought leadership, or legal copy, it’s best to keep a human in charge. Use AI as a supporting tool, not the final authority.

Key Takeaways

Bottom line, keep It human

AI is a powerful ally, but it's not the final draft. From avoiding self-plagiarism to crafting smarter prompts, the best results happen when human creativity and machine speed work together.

The next time AI serves up a clunky intro or a repetitive paragraph, don't get discouraged; get editing. Use tools, services, and your expertise to polish the output. When writing aligns with strategy, tone, and originality, your brand doesn't just show up in feeds, it leaves a lasting impression.

Remember, you're not just using AI. You're shaping it to amplify your own voice, and that's where the real influence begins!

Written by

Alethea Spiridon

Associate Content Director

Alethea is a seasoned content and digital growth strategist with 25+ years of experience helping brands build lasting equity. As Associate Content Director at The Influence Agency, she excels at translating complexity into clear, impactful content that drives measurable business growth. When not working, she can be found writing novels and film scripts, enjoying the outdoors, or sipping a good cup of tea.