Why I Think You Should Almost Never Use AI to Write Anything Substantive

The author argues that relying on AI to produce substantive writing undermines the depth, authenticity, and critical thinking essential to meaningful creative work. They highlight that AI-generated content often lacks nuance and originality, which are crucial for developing a distinctive voice and engaging storytelling. Instead, the piece advocates for writing processes that prioritize human insight and intentionality over automated shortcuts.

https://erichgrunewald.substack.com/p/why-you-should-almost-never-use-ai

How To Write With An LLM

The article advises writers to use large language models (LLMs) as copyediting tools rather than ghostwriters, emphasizing two key rules: never use LLM-suggested words verbatim and avoid taking the model’s encouragement at face value to preserve authentic voice. LLMs excel at spotting technical issues like overused phrases or passive voice, so writers should draft independently, then employ models to identify problems and assist with iterative editing while maintaining control over content and style.

https://sockpuppet.org/blog/2026/09/17/how-to-write-with-an-llm/

Proper English Is a Myth: There’s No ‘Correct’ Way to Write

Brennan Kenneth Brown argues that the idea of “proper English” is a myth, as there is no universal, fixed standard for writing or speaking English. He explains that all dialects have systematic grammar, and enforcing rigid correctness often perpetuates social and linguistic oppression. Brown encourages focusing on communication and meaning rather than policing language, emphasizing that language is fluid, context-dependent, and shaped by culture and history.

https://brennan.day/proper-english-is-a-myth-theres-no-correct-way-to-write/

Use Scrivener’s Project Bookmarks to Easily Access Research Files

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Scrivener offers project bookmarks that enable writers to quickly access frequently used research files within complex projects, independent of the document being edited. These bookmarks can link to internal documents, external files, or URLs and can be managed and viewed through the Inspector, toolbar icon, or a dedicated Project Bookmarks window, which can remain open for constant reference during writing. This functionality helps writers seamlessly integrate research into their workflow by allowing multiple viewing options, including editor splits, quick reference windows, and external apps.

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/blog/use-scriveners-project-bookmarks-to-easily-access-research-files

Why Personal Websites Are Coming Back

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Personal websites are experiencing a resurgence as people seek greater control over their online presence, moving away from social media platforms that own and control users’ content and audiences. With stable domain ownership, simple hosting options, and standards like RSS, individuals can create personal sites that prioritize independence, identity, and lasting accessibility over algorithm-driven feeds or commercial metrics. This return to personal websites emphasizes the value of having a unique online home for writing, projects, or self-expression without needing to conform to platform-driven models.

https://deadparrotbbs.com/why-personal-websites-are-coming-back/

The Habits of AI Writing — and What to Do About Them

The article explores common patterns and tendencies in AI-generated writing, highlighting its frequent reliance on formulaic structures and predictable phrasing. It suggests approaches for writers to recognize these AI habits and employ strategies that enhance originality and depth, thereby improving the creative and editorial process when integrating AI tools.

https://a16zcrypto.substack.com/p/the-habits-of-ai-writing-and-what

To Write Non-Fiction, Draw the Trunk, Then the Rest of the Tree

The author emphasizes that successful non-fiction writing starts by clearly defining the central theme or “trunk” of the piece before developing supporting arguments or “branches.” They advocate structuring writing thoughtfully for the intended audience, using techniques like semantic waves to balance abstract concepts with concrete examples, ensuring reader engagement and comprehension. Drawing on personal experience, the author credits strong reading and writing skills—more than lecture attendance—for their academic success in history.

https://devz.cl/posts/how-to-write/

How to Customize Compile Formats in Scrivener for iPad and iPhone

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Scrivener for iPad and iPhone allows users to compile writing projects into various file formats with basic default templates, including Manuscript, Modern, Palatino Book, and Script formats. While customization options are more limited than on desktop versions, users can edit compile formats using simple YAML text files called .scomp files, enabling detailed control over formatting such as font, spacing, chapter numbering, headers, footers, and page breaks. This advanced editing approach requires some learning but offers many of the same formatting capabilities available on Mac and Windows, allowing writers to tailor their exported documents precisely.

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/blog/how-to-customize-compile-formats-in-scrivener-for-ipad-and-iphone

IDEA Gold

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The iA Notebook recently completed a grand slam of international product design awards, receiving Red Dot Best of the Best, iF Gold, and IDEA Gold honors after a decade of iterative development focused on creating a notebook with lines visible while writing but invisible while reading. The design process involved extensive experimentation with paper types, line styles, and details, reflecting a shared approach among diverse designers of patience and refinement until the product was fully honed. The recognition highlights the dedication to subtle innovation and craftsmanship in developing sustainable, user-focused creative tools.

https://ia.net/topics/idea-gold

Write Now with Scrivener, Episode No. 66: John Degen, Author and Head of The Writers’ Union of Canada

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John Degen, author and head of The Writers’ Union of Canada, wrote his latest novel, Seldom Seen Road, entirely on his iPhone using Scrivener, utilizing daily commutes to maintain a consistent writing routine. The novel features a detective trio set against the vast wilderness of northern Canada, where the landscape acts as both a character and an omnipresent threat, reflecting Degen’s deep connection to his environment and interests like birding. He also addresses issues of authors’ rights amid AI training data concerns and plans to create a writing shed to further separate his imaginative work from daily life.

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/blog/write-now-with-scrivener-episode-no-66-john-degen-author-and-head-of-the-writers-union-of-canada

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