Cognitive Impact of AI and Search on Essay Writing

The June 2025 paper presents excerpts from a study examining the **cognitive and performance differences** in essay writing among participants using a Large Language Model (LLM) like ChatGPT, a traditional **Search Engine**, or **no external tools (Brain-only)**. The research uses **EEG connectivity analysis** to illustrate that the Brain-only group experienced a higher cognitive load, characterized by stronger and more extensive neural connectivity across various brain regions, indicative of greater executive control and internal idea generation. Conversely, the LLM group exhibited a **reduced cognitive load** and lower neural connectivity, suggesting a reliance on the tool that may compromise deeper cognitive processes and result in **less diverse and less accurate content** compared to the Brain-only group. The study also explores **NLP analysis** of the essays, finding that LLM-generated content is statistically homogeneous, while the Brain-only essays show greater linguistic variability and originality. Ultimately, the findings suggest a **trade-off between convenience and cognitive engagement**, cautioning that AI assistance may attenuate the development of robust writing and critical thinking skills.

Source:

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2506.08872