I'd estimate that using AI to implement a well-defined feature typically takes about 1.5x the time for me - and yet I still use AI extensively.
The key difference is that I can context switch. Once the AI has context and is doing its thing, I can move on to another task that's not working in the same area or project. I can post on HN. I can catch up on my Slack inbounds, or my email.
Having two tasks running at once nets a small but nice improvement in velocity. Having any tasks running while I'm doing other things effectively doubles my output.
The key difference is that I can context switch. Once the AI has context and is doing its thing, I can move on to another task that's not working in the same area or project. I can post on HN. I can catch up on my Slack inbounds, or my email.
Having two tasks running at once nets a small but nice improvement in velocity. Having any tasks running while I'm doing other things effectively doubles my output.