Field Guide · Judgment and ops
When not to use AI
Skipping the model is a skill. Here is when enthusiasm should wait.
Pause when
- You do not understand the domain enough to spot a bad answer.
- The task is irreversible and high stakes without a second checker.
- You are avoiding learning a skill you need to own.
- The input contains secrets or regulated data your policy forbids.
Replacement activities
Sketch on paper. Ask a colleague. Read the primary source. Sleep on it. The goal is better judgment, not maximum tokens.