Technical Report Writing Efficiency Using AI-Powered Tools: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Directions

Abstract

 The study explores the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing the efficiency and quality of technical report

writing, focusing on commonly used tools such as grammar checkers, ChatGPT-based drafting assistants, and citation

management software. Using a mixed-methods approach, comprising expert interviews and a survey of 83 technical writers,

the research examines how AI technologies are currently integrated into professional writing practices and evaluates their impact

across efficiency, accuracy, and ethical dimensions. The findings indicate that AI tools offer substantial time savings, especially

in automating repetitive tasks such as grammar correction, referencing, and document structuring. They also improve linguistic

clarity and consistency in terminology. However, experts caution that AI tools still struggle with domain-specific accuracy and

contextual interpretation, limiting their effectiveness in specialized fields like engineering and business. Moreover, ethical

concerns, including potential plagiarism, authorship ambiguity, and over-reliance among novice writers, emerge as critical

challenges. Despite these limitations, the study finds that AI can play a valuable role as a collaborative partner in technical writing

when paired with human oversight. It advocates for developing domain-adaptive AI systems and calls for more straightforward

ethical guidelines to support responsible integration. While the research sample is modest and primarily technology-focused, the

study offers meaningful contributions to the discourse on AI in technical communication. It provides practical recommendations

for leveraging AI tools effectively while preserving the critical role of human expertise, judgment, and ethical responsibility in

technical documentation.