I asked AI for help with DIY. It told me to build a subfloor on rotting stumps, but also taught me valuable lessons The author explored AI’s practical applications for DIY projects, finding it useful for gathering information and providing step-by-step instructions for tasks like painting and minor repairs. However, the AI’s tendency to offer unearned praise and sometimes provide incorrect advice, such as suggesting a large amount of gravel for a small project or advising to build on rotten stumps, highlighted the critical need for human judgment and experience. Ultimately, the experience reinforced the author’s belief in trusting personal judgment over AI, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking in navigating AI-generated advice.

• The author, initially a luddite, explored AI for practical DIY tasks after being tasked to find AI applications at work.
• AI proved useful for compiling shopping lists, selecting equipment, and providing step-by-step renovation guidance.
• The author found AI’s excessive praise irritating, preferring factual advice over unearned confidence.
• AI provided some questionable advice, including suggesting building a subfloor on rotten stumps and vastly overestimating the required amount of drainage gravel.
• The experience underscored the importance of human judgment, critical thinking, and real-world experience when using AI.
• Over-reliance on AI for decision-making was a concern, potentially impacting various aspects of life.
• The author concluded that while AI can build confidence, discerning its advice requires human expertise and critical evaluation.