I've been using LLMs the same way this past year. As a challenge to myself, I've implemented full-stack interview evaluations using languages and tools I've never worked with before and see what I can do. Using LLMs, it hasn't taken me more than 50% longer to craft a solution as compared to my crafting one using tools and technologies with which I'm intimately familiar.
Some of that extra time was a result of learning the craft of using LLMs in this manner. With each new technology stack, that excess amount of time decreased.
Now, let's be honest, you still have to have excellent development skills, and it helps immensely to have a good knowledge of software architecture and design. I say that to point out that non-developers could not achieve these results. In the right hands though, it can make you a lot more productive.
Some of that extra time was a result of learning the craft of using LLMs in this manner. With each new technology stack, that excess amount of time decreased.
Now, let's be honest, you still have to have excellent development skills, and it helps immensely to have a good knowledge of software architecture and design. I say that to point out that non-developers could not achieve these results. In the right hands though, it can make you a lot more productive.