I have been extensively using ChatGPT since it was still in beta test mode back in Aug’22. It’s amazing to see how far it has come since then, especially when it comes to coding. What started as a chatbot that got confused between Java and JavaScript, it has now evolved into a 10x programmer who is an expert in all the programming languages of the world.
Developer shaming
On Reddit and other developer forums, it’s generally looked down upon when developers use ChatGPT in their coding workflows. I have seen developers being called out for using ChatGPT generated code. You will see tons of posts like “Real developers don’t use AI” or “If you used ChatGPT, did you really code it?”.
Developers are already in a constant state of impostor syndrome and then to make matters worse, they are now being shamed for using tools that make them more productive.
Don’t be ashamed for using ChatGPT
Here’s how I look at it – using ChatGPT is no different than using a calculator. No one is ashamed of using a calculator and no one accuses you of being bad at math because you used a calculator to divide 4083 by 17. Similarly, no one calls you weak when you use a screwdriver to tighten a screw instead of twisting it in with your fingers.
My point is, tools are meant to be used to help us solve problem efficiently. The real skill is in knowing how to use these tools properly.
Tools are free, skills are not
The thing about tools is that most tools are easily available and accessible to everyone. It’s like how anyone can go to the hardware shop and buy bricks and cement. Those are the tools required to build a house. But just because anyone can buy those tools, does not mean they can actually build a house.
Similarly, just because you have access to a toolbox does not mean you can fix your broken refrigerator. You need a qualified technician who knows how to use those tools to repair the fridge.
To conclude, don’t feel bad for using ChatGPT to code. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with it. It’s not cheating, it’s just about using tools to solve your problems efficiently.
Next time when someone tells you using ChatGPT is not “real coding”, remind them how everything else they use to code like the IDE, the browser, the compiler, even their laptop is just a tool!
