𝗜 𝗖𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗔𝗜 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝟯𝟬 𝗗𝗮𝘆𝘀
I removed Copilot. I logged out of ChatGPT. I used zero AI tools for 30 days.
A friend told me about a junior developer. This developer used a recursive approach in a pull request. When asked why, he said Copilot suggested it. He did not understand his own code.
I looked at my own recent work. I found functions I could not explain. I hit tab and moved on. I realized I was losing my edge.
Here is how the 30 days went:
- Week 1: My productivity dropped by 60%. I felt lost without suggestions.
- Week 2: My focus returned. I sat in deep work for 2 hours without interruptions.
- Week 3: My code quality improved. I found bugs I usually ignore.
- Week 4: I created three rules for my future AI use.
The most important change is my 15-minute rule.
When you find a bug, set a timer for 15 minutes. Do not use AI during this time. Read the error. Check the documentation. Trace your logic. Think.
I solve the problem before the timer ends 90% of the time. I learn the lesson instead of pasting a fix.
I recorded my full experience on camera. I share the raw truth about training your brain to work again.
Could you code for 7 days without any AI help? Let me know in the comments.
Source: https://dev.to/dhanushnehru/i-coded-without-ai-for-30-days-heres-what-it-did-to-my-brain-1ihl