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Artificial Intelligence (AI)

A guide to Artificial Intelligence and academic integrity for students.

Citing AI

Examples of written acknowledgments

Suggested format template

I acknowledge the use of [insert AI system(s) and link] to [specific use of generative artificial intelligence]. I entered the following prompts on [date]: [list of prompts]. The output from these prompts was used to [explain use]. A copy of the original output is attached with my assignment.

Legend: [1] AI system(s) and link; [2] specific use of generative AI; [3] date AI prompt used[4] prompts used; [5] explanation of use.

Here are two examples of written acknowledgements, but please check with your professor about their preferences. The color-coding is used to illustrate the legend from the template above. Do not use it in your acknowledgements.

Example 1

I acknowledge the use of ChatGPT (https://chat.openai.com/to generate materials for background research and self-study for this assignment. I entered the following prompts on 7 April 2023:

  • Write a 250 word summary about the history of the Kamloops Indian Residential School. Add two references.

The original output was adapted and modified for the final response. A copy of the original output is attached with my assignment.

Example 2

I acknowledge the use of ChatGPT (https://chat.openai.com/) to refine the academic language and accuracy of my own work. I submitted my entire essay and entered the following prompts on 7 April 2023:

  • Improve the academic tone and accuracy of language, including grammatical structures, punctuation and vocabulary

The original output was adapted and modified for the final response. A copy of my original essay and a copy of the original output are attached with my assignment.

Citing AI by Citation Style

Some citation styles have begun to develop guidelines for citing ChatGPT and other generative AI. Guidelines may change and new citation styles may be added, so check back frequently for updates, and consult resources specific to the citation style you are using. If the style you are using does not have relevant guidelines yet, you may consider using the following formats:

  • Personal communication - If you are using generative AI to assist with your assignment that does not have a shareable output
  • App/Software - If the output is saved, is shareable, or otherwise retrievable (e.g., using ShareGPT, AI Archives, or ChatGPT link sharing feature)

Prompt included in text

1. Text generated by ChatGPT, OpenAI, January 11, 2024, https://chat.openai.com/chat.

Prompt not included in text

1. ChatGPT, response to "What are the most common forms of plagiarism," OpenAI, January 11, 2024, edited for style and content.

Notes:

  • Treat AI chats like personal communications and credit the tool in the text or in a note. Do not include the citation in your bibliography or reference list unless you provide a publicly-available link to the chat.
  • A general URL to the tool is optional. If you can provide a publicly-available link to the text that was generated, you should.
  • Provide the date that the text was generated.
  • Include whether you've edited the AI-generated content either in the text or in the note.

AIs and Authorship

Publishers are taking various approaches related to the use of generative AI. If you are writing for publication, check the publisher's information for authors. As of August 2023, several publishers have provided guidance on how AI tools should be considered in their publications:

Frequently Asked Questions