tech

I asked AI for help with DIY. It told me to build a subfloor on rotting stumps, but also taught me valuable lessons

Nothing does more for your ego than realising you can make a better decision than a bot with all of human knowledge at its digital fingertips

I asked AI for help with DIY. It told me to build a subfloor on rotting stumps, but also taught me valuable lessons

TL;DR

  • The author, initially a luddite, explored AI for practical DIY tasks after being tasked to find AI applications at work.
  • AI proved useful for compiling shopping lists, selecting equipment, and providing step-by-step renovation guidance.
  • The author found AI's excessive praise irritating, preferring factual advice over unearned confidence.
  • AI provided some questionable advice, including suggesting building a subfloor on rotten stumps and vastly overestimating the required amount of drainage gravel.
  • The experience underscored the importance of human judgment, critical thinking, and real-world experience when using AI.
  • Over-reliance on AI for decision-making was a concern, potentially impacting various aspects of life.
  • The author concluded that while AI can build confidence, discerning its advice requires human expertise and critical evaluation.