Checking AI output in three steps

AI produces a first draft quickly. Whether it's good enough to send is your call. With a fixed three-step check, you can review efficiently without rewriting everything.

Step 1: is it right?

Start with the content.

• Are the facts, figures, dates, names and prices correct?
• Are there claims you can't confirm yourself? Look them up or remove them.
• Are the sources real? Open every link.
• Has anything been added that you didn't ask for, such as a promise or an extra condition?

If in doubt, cut it or check it. A shorter text that's correct beats a longer one with a mistake.

Step 2: does it fit?

Then check whether the text suits the reader and your business.

• Is the purpose clear? Does the reader know what you expect of them?
• Is the tone right? Not too formal, not too chummy, no forced enthusiasm.
• Does it sound like your business? AI texts often have tell-tale words and phrases. Cut anything you'd never say.
• Is the language right? British or international English as your customers expect, and no stray Americanisms if you don't use them.
• Is it too long? Ask for a version half the length if needed.

Step 3: is it allowed?

Finally, look at the risks.

• Does it contain confidential information that isn't meant for this reader?
• Are you committing to something you don't want to be held to, legally or commercially?
• Are you using images, logos or text that belong to someone else?
• Does someone else need to see it first, such as a colleague, your accountant or a lawyer?

How much time should you spend?

It depends on what's at stake. An internal note takes a minute. A quote, website copy or a reply to a complaint deserves more care. A useful rule: the bigger the consequences of a mistake, the more thorough the check.

Getting AI to help with the check

You can also ask AI to review its own work, ideally in a new conversation. Ask specifically for errors, unclear passages and claims that need confirming. Treat it as an extra pair of eyes, not a replacement for your own check.

Checklist to keep

Prompt to copy