Using AI in Coding?

 AI tools like ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, and AI-based code generators are becoming extremely popular among students and beginners in the programming world. While these tools are powerful, many beginners fall into the trap of completely depending on them. This over-reliance can actually harm your learning and limit your long-term growth as a developer.

In this blog, let’s understand why completely depending on AI is a mistake and how to use AI tools wisely in your learning journey.

Why Depending Fully on AI Tools is a Mistake

1. You Don’t Learn Problem-Solving

Programming is not just about writing code. It’s about thinking logically, solving problems, and understanding how things work behind the scenes. If you let AI solve every problem for you, your own thinking process weakens. Without practicing problem-solving yourself, you won't develop the skills required to write code from scratch or debug complex issues.

2. You Become a Copy-Paste Developer

Relying too much on AI can make you dependent on it for every small task. Over time, you may only know how to copy code from AI without understanding what that code actually does. In real-world scenarios or interviews, this approach fails because:

• You’ll be asked to explain your code.
• You’ll face coding problems that need custom solutions.
• AI tools won’t be available during interviews or exams.

3. Lack of Debugging Skills

When your code has errors or doesn't work as expected, AI might suggest fixes. But without understanding core programming concepts, you won't know how to debug the code yourself. Real programmers spend a significant amount of time debugging and improving their code. Overusing AI can prevent you from learning this critical skill.

4. Weak Understanding of Core Concepts

If you rely on AI to generate solutions:

• You may skip learning the basics of syntax, logic, or how frameworks work.
• Your understanding stays shallow.
• You might struggle when working on large projects or when asked to modify code written by others.

How to Use AI Wisely

AI isn’t bad. In fact, when used properly, it can accelerate your learning. The key is to use AI as a support tool, not a crutch.

Here’s how you should approach it:

• Try Yourself First: Always attempt to write code or solve problems on your own first.
• Use AI for Clarification: If stuck, ask AI for hints, explanations, or guidance—not full solutions.
• Understand Before Using: If AI generates code, study and understand every part of it before using it in your project.
• Use AI for Reviewing: After solving a problem, use AI to review your solution or suggest optimization ideas.
• Ask for Conceptual Explanations: Use AI to understand difficult concepts, not just generate answers.

Example: Right vs Wrong Approach

Wrong Way:

• Prompt: “Give me code for a personal portfolio website.”
• Copy-paste AI’s answer directly without understanding.

Right Way:

• Learn HTML/CSS basics.
• Try building your website yourself.
• If stuck, ask AI: “How do I make a navigation bar?” or “Why is my button not centered?”
• Use AI suggestions to improve your project.

Conclusion

AI is powerful, but your thinking, problem-solving, and creativity are what make you a real programmer.

AI should help you learn, not replace your learning.

Don’t let AI tools do all the work for you. Focus on building your own skills, and use AI as your assistant—not your brain.

By thinking first and using AI wisely, you’ll become a much stronger and more independent developer.