A growing number of writers openly claim they use AI to 'help' with their writing, but this distinction disappears to readers who see the output. The author argues that when AI drafts content with your name attached, it crosses ethical boundaries regardless of claimed involvement. He draws firm lines between acceptable collaboration and deceptive automation.

His personal policy prohibits any AI drafting of his work, comparing it to taking a helicopter to Everest's summit and claiming you climbed. He recounts ghostwriting for a poor writer years ago, acknowledging that despite collaboration, the work was substantially his own—a decision that still troubles him. The piece contrasts this with genuine partnership, citing his work with Jeff Nadelman on a chapter in Taking Testing Seriously.

True collaboration, he argues, involves deep engagement where both parties contribute substantially. Chat GPT represents a different category entirely—an opaque tool that cannot verify authentic contribution. When writers claim AI assistance, readers reasonably question whether any real work occurred.

The author warns that admitting AI use invites suspicion about all future work. Like someone who admits being a 'skilled liar,' claiming AI help undermines credibility permanently. Professional reputation now depends on demonstrable authorship, making transparency about AI involvement a reputational hazard.