The Human-in-the-Loop: A Guide to Using an AI Writing Tool

By Lucas Vuong - Digital Marketing & Growth Strategy Lead, Pixel Commerce Studio

September 15, 2025

AI is a tool, not a replacement. Learn the human-in-the-loop approach to using an AI writing tool, ensuring your content is authentic, accurate, and truly your own.

A smiling male concierge in a suit stands at a reception desk in a modern hotel or airport lobby, looking down at his computer. — Image generated with the Gemini AI App by Pixel Commerce Studio — showcasing how AI writing tools support, not replace, real human creativity

The Human-in-the-Loop Approach to AI

When you use an AI writing tool, the most effective approach is to keep a "human-in-the-loop." This means you should treat the AI as a collaborator, not as a complete replacement for your own work. The AI can handle the tedious, time-consuming tasks, but your expertise, creativity, and judgment are what make the final output truly valuable. Consequently, a symbiotic relationship between human and AI is the key to creating high-quality content.

A screenshot of the — Designed by Pixel Commerce Studio for Oscar Surfaces. The contents of the the website can be supported using AI writing tool, but still keep original Brand messages

Always use the AI as a starting point

First and foremost, always use the AI as a starting point. Don't simply copy and paste the AI's output without making any changes. Instead, use the generated text as a first draft or an outline. For example, if you're writing a blog post, you can have the AI generate a rough draft, and then you can go in and add your unique insights, personal anecdotes, and specific examples. This ensures that the content is original and reflects your voice. Most importantly, it adds the human touch that readers crave.

An inspirational quote on an orange background that reads,

Fact-checking is a non-negotiable step

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Next, fact-checking is a non-negotiable step. An AI writing tool can sometimes "hallucinate," or generate false information. Therefore, you must always verify any facts, statistics, or claims that the AI provides. In addition, you should use reliable sources to back up your content. This not only ensures the accuracy of your work but also builds trust with your audience.

Refine the AI's output to match your brand voice

Furthermore, refine the AI's output to match your brand voice. While some tools have a brand voice feature, they are not perfect. You should always read through the AI-generated content and make sure the tone, style, and word choice align with your brand's personality. As a result, the content will feel authentic and consistent.

Digital marketing with AI — AI can help write and structure customer reviews, but it’s the human side—real feelings, personal stories, and honest reactions—that people actually trust. This image captures exactly that. AI might assist in creating the content, but it's humans who give it life, emotion, and authenticity.

Poster Created by Pixel Commercial Team.

The human-in-the-loop approach is about maintaining control

Finally, the human-in-the-loop approach is about maintaining control. You are the editor, the fact-checker, and the final decision-maker. The AI writing tool is a tool to help you achieve your goals more efficiently. As these points show, the most successful creators will be those who master the art of working alongside AI, rather than letting it take over.