Learning with AI
AI is the most powerful learning tool for amateur players in this era. Using AI well can greatly accelerate your improvement; but if used improperly, it may actually hinder learning. This article introduces how to correctly use AI to assist learning.
Recommended AI Tools
KataGo
Introduction: Currently one of the most powerful open-source Go AIs, playing strength exceeds top human professionals.
Features:
- Completely free and open-source
- Supports various rules (Chinese, Japanese, Korean, etc.)
- Can analyze any position
- Provides win rate, score estimate, best move suggestions
Suitable for: Players with some computer skills
Lizzie
Introduction: Graphical interface for KataGo or Leela Zero, making AI analysis more intuitive.
Features:
- Visual display of AI analysis results
- Can view various variation diagrams
- Relatively simple to operate
- Supports loading SGF game records
Suitable for: Players who want convenient game analysis
Sabaki
Introduction: Modern Go game record editor that can be paired with KataGo.
Features:
- Clean, beautiful interface
- Complete game record management features
- Can integrate AI engines
- Cross-platform support (Windows, Mac, Linux)
Suitable for: Players who like organizing game records
Online AI Analysis Services
If you don't want to install software on your computer, there are online services:
| Service | Features | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| AI Sensei | Web-based analysis, friendly interface | Players wanting quick analysis |
| Various Go platforms | Built-in AI analysis features | Players on those platforms |
Guidelines for Using AI Analysis
When to Use AI Analysis
Appropriate times:
- Reviewing after games end
- Studying variations of specific positions
- Checking if your judgments are correct
- Learning new move concepts
Inappropriate times:
- During a game (this is cheating)
- Before you've thought about it yourself
- Checking AI for every single move
How to Use AI Analysis Effectively
1. Review Yourself First
Before opening AI, first review the game yourself:
- Where were the turning points?
- Which moves am I unsure about?
- Which moves am I satisfied with?
Going to AI analysis with questions makes it much more effective.
2. Focus on Big Mistakes
AI shows "win rate change" for each move. Prioritize:
| Win Rate Change | Meaning | How to Treat |
|---|---|---|
| > 10% | Serious mistake | Must study carefully |
| 5-10% | Clear mistake | Worth noting |
| 2-5% | Small mistake | Understand it |
| < 2% | Minor difference | Don't worry too much |
3. Understand "Why"
Don't just look at what AI recommends, understand:
- Why is this move better than mine?
- What problems would my move cause?
- Can this concept apply elsewhere?
4. Record Learning Insights
After analysis, record:
- What did I learn from this game
- What concepts need strengthening
- What to watch for in similar positions
Avoiding Over-Dependence on AI
Signs of Over-Dependence
If you have these situations, you may be over-dependent on AI:
- Must use AI analysis after every game or feel uneasy
- Start doubting all your own judgments
- Lost the joy of thinking for yourself
- During games, think "what would AI play"
Why Avoid Over-Dependence
| Over-Dependence Problem | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Lost independent thinking ability | Don't know what to do in unfamiliar positions |
| Reduced learning effectiveness | Looking at answers without thinking, can't remember |
| Reduced playing enjoyment | Becomes a game of "seeking AI approval" |
| Affects actual game performance | No AI in tournaments, play worse |
Healthy Usage Methods
- Think first, then check answers: Use AI to verify your thinking, not replace thinking
- Don't analyze every game: Selectively analyze meaningful games
- Focus on concepts, not memorizing: Learn the underlying principles, not specific sequences
- Preserve the pure joy of playing: Sometimes just enjoy playing without thinking about analysis
Suggestions by Level
Beginners (30 kyu - 20 kyu)
Suggestion: No need for AI analysis yet
Reason:
- Still learning basic rules and concepts
- AI analysis is too complex for beginners
- Should focus on accumulating game experience
What to do at this stage:
- Play more games
- Do simple life and death problems
- Discuss briefly with friends or teachers after games
Entry Level (20 kyu - 10 kyu)
Suggestion: Use occasionally, focus on big mistakes
Usage method:
- Analyze 1-2 games per week is enough
- Only look at win rate changes over 10%
- Don't obsess over details
Kyu Level Players (10 kyu - 1 kyu)
Suggestion: Use regularly, build analysis habits
Usage method:
- Can carefully analyze important games
- Start noticing 5-10% mistakes
- Try to understand concepts behind AI recommended moves
Dan Level Players (1 dan and above)
Suggestion: Use systematically, study in depth
Usage method:
- Can analyze more subtle differences
- Study specific positions and variations
- Use AI to check your new ideas
Summary
AI is a powerful learning tool, but how you use it determines the results:
| Correct Usage | Incorrect Usage |
|---|---|
| Assist thinking | Replace thinking |
| Understand concepts | Memorize variations |
| Verify ideas | Seek approval |
| Moderate analysis | Must analyze every game |
Remember: AI is your teacher, not your brain. Learning independent thinking is real improvement.
The joy of Go lies in thinking for yourself and growing. AI can accelerate your improvement but cannot replace your playing experience. Enjoy the process, keep improving - this is the most precious gift Go gives us.