# Timing Matters: How Using LLMs at Different Timings Influences Writers' Perceptions and Ideation Outcomes in AI-Assisted Ideation

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2502.06197 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2502.06197/

## Key facts

- Cited by 8 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 10 Feb 2025.

## Built on by (most cited first, 8 of 8)

- [The Homogenizing Effect of Large Language Models on Human Expression and Thought](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2508.01491/) (2025)
- [Understanding, Protecting, and Augmenting Human Cognition with Generative AI: A Synthesis of the CHI 2025 Tools for Thought Workshop](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2508.21036/) (2025)
- [Interaction as Intelligence: Deep Research With Human-AI Partnership](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2507.15759/) (2025)
- [Constella: Supporting Storywriters' Interconnected Character Creation through LLM-based Multi-Agents](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2507.05820/) (2025)
- [AI-exhibited Personality Traits Can Shape Human Self-concept through Conversations](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2601.12727/) (2026)
- [Augmenting Human Cognition With Generative AI: Lessons From AI-Assisted Decision-Making](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2504.03207/) (2025)
- [PromptHelper: A Prompt Recommender System for Encouraging Creativity in AI Chatbot Interactions](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2601.15575/) (2026)
- [Beyond Compliance: How AI Could Help Creative Writers by Refusing Them](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2605.16272/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Large Language Models (LLMs) have been widely used to support ideation in the writing process. However, whether generating ideas with the help of LLMs leads to idea fixation or idea expansion is unclear. This study examines how different timings of LLM usage - either at the beginning or after independent ideation - affect people's perceptions and ideation outcomes in a writing task. In a controlled experiment with 60 participants, we found that using LLMs from the beginning reduced the number of original ideas and lowered creative self-efficacy and self-credit, mediated by changes in autonomy and ownership. We discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with using LLMs to assist in idea generation. We propose delaying the use of LLMs to support ideation while considering users' self-efficacy, autonomy, and ownership of the ideation outcomes.