Stop asking AI to “write like a human"
Stop asking AI to “write like a human.”
That instruction is too vague.
The same goes for:
“Humanise this.”
“Make this sound human.”
“Make it less AI.”
If you want a better result, tell the AI what feels artificial and what you want it to change.
Try these 7 prompts instead:
1. Remove the AI Patterns
“Rewrite this to remove common AI writing patterns such as generic introductions, unnecessary filler, repeated ideas, predictable transitions, corporate language, exaggerated statements, and forced conclusions. Keep the original message, facts, and personality.”
2. Give It a Natural Conversation Style
“Rewrite this as if an intelligent person were explaining the idea to a friend. Use simple language, contractions, natural expressions, and varied sentence lengths. Avoid making every sentence sound perfectly polished.”
3. Replace General Statements With Details
“Make this more specific. Replace vague claims with concrete examples, situations, observations, or details. Whenever the text makes a broad statement, explain what that looks like in a real situation.”
4. Give the Writer an Opinion
“Rewrite this with a clear point of view. Remove neutral filler and generic advice. Make the writer sound like someone who understands the subject, has formed an opinion, and is willing to express it clearly.”
5. Break the Predictable Rhythm
“Rewrite this using a more natural sentence rhythm. Mix short, medium, and longer sentences. Vary paragraph structure. Use an occasional short fragment when it improves emphasis. Avoid making every paragraph follow the same pattern.”
6. Remove the Sales Pitch
“Rewrite this in a direct, believable voice. Remove marketing clichés, buzzwords, hype, exaggerated promises, artificial urgency, and promotional language. Make the writing sound confident without trying to sell the reader.”
7. Teach AI Your Writing Style
“Study these five samples of my writing: [paste samples]. Identify my vocabulary, sentence structure, level of directness, humor, emotional tone, paragraph style, formatting habits, and recurring expressions. Then rewrite the following text using those characteristics: [paste text]. Do not copy sentences or phrases from the samples.”
The lesson?
Don’t tell AI to “sound human.”
Tell it what makes the writing sound artificial.
Specific instructions produce specific changes.
Save these prompts. You’ll use them often.