AI writing tools are overwhelming: general models, vertical assistants, polishing plugins. Instead of trying all, figure out which step of your workflow you're at.
Step 1: Topic and outline
Here you want structure. Use a general model (ChatGPT, Claude) to generate 5–8 angles and a detailed outline — more controllable than asking for a full draft.
Step 2: Draft and expand
Feed the outline to a long-form tool, one section at a time. Section-by-section avoids mid-text collapse and makes local rewrites easy.
Step 3: Polish and tone
- Use a polishing plugin to unify terms and tone
- Ask AI to flag logic gaps and repetition
- Keep your own views and examples; let AI handle language only
Choosing a tool is really choosing which step of your flow it does best.
With this four-step method, two or three tools cover all your writing — no more jumping between a dozen products.