Do we need AI tools to simplify on-page search?

[ProtosGalaxias]

I was recently browsing a page with API documentation and couldn’t find a specific detail - and this, after 10 minutes of meticulous search. I was refusing to ask AI to help me at first, I was determined to do it on my own.

After I finally found it (by myself), I thought: ok, I am this stubborn fool who searched for a quick self-recognition after completing a “difficult” task but how many are there like me?

I think most of the folks would ask ChatGPT or their browser assistant to help them.

Is it the websites and docs that are made poorly or are we are getting dumber with all the noise surrounding us and AI at hand?

Curious to have your opinion.

[ofalkaed]

Probably a mix of both and some other stuff.

I think the real problem is that most people don't identify their actual problem so they can form a good question which will help them beyond the immediate need. Your problem was not finding that specific detail but navigating that API and this is the sort of question AI can be very good with.

>I can't find anything in this API, can you break down its structure and offer some advice on how to effectively navigate it?

Possibly a bit too generic but generic is a good place to start, it lets you judge the AI's grasp on the topic. Let its answer guide you in a few followup questions.

[ProtosGalaxias]

If I understood well, your take is that we have to learn how to use AI tools smarter so that they could help us better?

[chrisjj]

Did you try browser Find in page?

[ProtosGalaxias]

Haven't thought about this at the moment, to be honest, would probably save me some time.