These days, lots of people are turning to AI chatbots for help with everyday decisions. They’re called “sloppers” — folks who rely so much on AI that they struggle to do things on their own. With tools like ChatGPT and other big language models, many ask AI what to wear, where to eat, or even how to handle tricky conversations. They also use AI to write emails, reports, social media posts, and school papers. It’s become so common that some people are outsourcing their thinking to machines.

But this habit isn’t without consequences. A recent study from MIT found that people who depend heavily on ChatGPT tend to write less well and score lower on tests of memory, focus, and critical thinking. The research showed that younger people under 30 had the biggest drop in brain activity and recall when using AI. Another survey from Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon found that office workers who relied most on AI felt less confident and checked facts less often. Over time, this kind of heavy reliance can lead to something called “cognitive debt,” where your ability to remember and analyze information diminishes.

On the flip side, some people are using AI as a tool to learn faster and better. If you’re smart about it, you can actually become an AI super-learner. One trick is to avoid asking AI for help at the start of a project or writing task. Instead, do your work first, then ask AI to review it for missing ideas or blind spots. This way, you keep your thinking sharp and use AI as a partner to improve your work.

Since sharing that tip, new AI tools have come onto the scene. These can help you learn faster and more effectively. One of them is Lex, a writing tool that helps you craft better words without writing for you. Instead of producing full texts automatically, Lex acts like a colleague, chatting with you about your document. You can ask questions like, “Is this more persuasive?” or “What examples am I missing?” and it responds with helpful suggestions. It also checks grammar and style, helping you learn as you go.

Another recent addition is OpenAI’s Study Mode for ChatGPT. This feature is designed mainly for students but works well for anyone who wants to learn faster. You tell ChatGPT what you want to study and your educational level. Then it asks you questions, breaks down complex topics, and guides you through the material. Instead of just giving answers, it encourages you to think critically and understand the content deeply.

Google has also launched a new tool called Gemini for Education. It’s free within Google Workspace for students and teachers. You can upload notes, textbooks, or assignments, and the AI will generate quizzes, summaries, or even podcasts. It acts like a personal tutor, asking questions and explaining topics step-by-step. Teachers can create custom AI assistants called “Gems” to support lessons or help students with simulations based on real class material. However, Gemini for Education is only available to students and teachers, not the general public.

For business users, Google’s LearnLM offers similar features. Launched in May, it integrates with Google Search and YouTube to break down tough topics, ask questions, and give step-by-step explanations. It’s like having an instructor in your pocket, helping you learn and memorize new information.

But these aren’t the only tools out there. Other AI platforms like StudyMonkey and AI Blaze focus on creating flashcards, quizzes, and summaries for different subjects, including STEM topics. Mindgrasp is another popular option, combining note-taking, class recordings, and content summaries to help students study. Extensions like Wisdolia turn web pages and PDFs into active recall flashcards, making study sessions more effective.

For mobile learners, Google’s Socratic app answers questions visually, explains solutions, and provides instant feedback — perfect for high school and introductory courses. Revisely helps with memorization and organizing topics for quick review. There are also tools like Tutor AI and TutorBin, which let users paste questions and get instant explanations.

All these tools show that AI can be a powerful learning partner — if you use it wisely. The key is to balance AI assistance with your own thinking, so your brain stays sharp and your skills grow. Whether you’re trying to remember facts, analyze complex ideas, or improve your writing, AI can accelerate your learning, but only if you don’t let it do all the work for you. The future of learning might just depend on how smartly you team up with these AI helpers.

Inspired by

• https://www.computerworld.com/article/4032753/smart-people-use-ai-to-get-smarter.html

Sources

• gmpg.org
• todayintabs.com
• mit.edu
• winssolutions.org
• lex.page