Are you relying on AI too much? A new study suggests that overusing artificial intelligence (AI) tools might weaken your critical thinking skills. AI tools make work quicker and simpler, so it's easy to rely on them to do most of the tasks for us. But at what cost?

What did the study find?

Researchers studied how using AI tools affects thinking skills in people aged 17 and older in the UK. They looked at over 650 participants and found that younger people who heavily relied on AI for solving problems and remembering things had weaker critical thinking skills. This is part of a process called "cognitive offloading," where people depend on tools instead of using their own brains.

The study’s lead author, Michael Gerlich from SBS Swiss Business School, said: “Younger participants who exhibited higher dependence on AI tools scored lower in critical thinking compared to their older counterparts.” He also said this shows the need to teach people how to use AI wisely so they don’t lose important thinking skills.

How the study was done

The researchers divided the participants into three age groups: 17-25 years, 26-45 years, and 46 years and older. They asked them a set of 23 questions to understand how they use AI tools, how much they rely on these tools instead of their own thinking (cognitive offloading), and their critical thinking skills. Some participants were also interviewed to share their personal experiences in detail.

Participants reactions

Many participants admitted they often depend on AI to remember information or make decisions. But some also raised concerns about how AI might influence their choices. For example, one participant said, “I sometimes wonder if AI is subtly nudging me toward decisions I wouldn’t normally make.” Another admitted, “I rarely reflect on the biases behind the AI recommendations; I tend to trust them outright.”

The findings are a wake-up call for schools and universities. If AI tools continue to grow more powerful, education systems will need to teach students how to think critically and avoid over-reliance on technology. As Gerlich pointed out, it’s essential to make sure the convenience of AI doesn’t come at the cost of essential cognitive skills.

While AI can save time and effort, it’s important to use it wisely. Balancing AI usage with exercises to build memory and critical thinking can ensure you stay sharp in a world increasingly run by technology.