BenPicks · Local worksheet · Method version 2 · 29 October 2026

AI writing cost per approved article

Compare the same approved output at the same editorial standard. Enter aggregate figures and non-sensitive evidence references only. Note fields are free text: do not include client names, article text, confidential documents or credentials. This file does not send or save entries automatically; keep a copy or print a filled version before closing it.

Use Print or Save as PDF in your browser. Text areas have finite printed space: inspect the print preview and put long notes on a separate page.

Brief batch and evidence periodOne currency and hourly labor rateShared approved-article target per monthShared setup allocation months for both workflowsCurrent workflow and plan basisAI workflow and plan basis

1. Keep the approval standard fixed

Acceptance requirements and evidence that both workflows meet them

2. Record inputs

Input and boundary	Current workflow	AI workflow
Total attempts Include rejected drafts
Drafting or prompting minutes per attempt Average across all attempts
Review and correction minutes per attempt Include fact-checking; keep finishing separate
Finishing minutes per approved article Approved outputs only
Allocated monthly software cost One common currency
Variable charge per attempt Exclude already included charges
One-time setup minutes Do not count again as recurring work

3. Check attempts and source evidence

Aggregate counts, timing method, source dates and unresolved gaps

A revised candidate is not automatically a new full attempt. Count actual cumulative minutes once. Never put the same correction in both review and finishing. A small sample is not a universal acceptance rate.

4. Record the calculation and decision

Monthly modeled cost = F + A × v + (w ÷ 60) × [A × (d + r) + Q × f + S ÷ H]. Q approved articles; A attempts; d draft minutes; r review minutes; f finishing minutes; F monthly software; v variable charge per attempt; w hourly cost; S setup minutes; H allocation months.

Current total and cost per approved articleAI total and cost per approved articleMaximum AI review minutes, or unavailable with reasonSoftware charge change and allocated hours change

Less favorable scenario and decision to verify

Allocated labor is not necessarily avoidable cash. Taxes, revenue, financing, contract exit fees and future price changes are outside this model. A lower cost does not establish quality, rights, suitability or search performance.

Method by BenPicks. Blank worksheet, not a vendor benchmark or a claim of measured savings.