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AI Student Guide: Citing AI

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is a complex set of technologies. AI tools are rapidly developing, and their applications are expanding. This guide aims to provide students with an introduction to some basic concepts concerning generative AI.

3 steps for citing Generative AI in your work

Make sure it is ethical for you to use GenAI output (see AI and Academic Integrity).

Fact-check any content you plan to use to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Cite or acknowledge your use of AI properly.

Below you'll find guidance on how to cite/acknowledge the use of Generative AI.

Page adapted from UC San Diego Library's Generative Artificial Intelligence: How to Cite AI ; icons by SAADI ALA

When is it safe to use Generative AI?

MLA Style: Citing Generative AI

As of November 2024, MLA does not recommend treating an AI tool as an author, and instead using the Title of Container element to specify the AI tool.

APA Style: Citing Generative AI

As of June 2023, APA style recommends citing the AI tool as the author, with in-text citations and references adapted from the reference template for software in Section 10.10 of the Publication Manual (American Psychological Association, 2020, Chapter 10).

Chicago Style: Citing Generative AI

As of June 2023, Chicago style does cite AI tool as author, with the following example: "ChatGPT is the author of the content, and the date is the date the text was generated. OpenAI (the organization that developed ChatGPT) is then listed as the publisher or sponsor of the content."