With the number of AI tools and AI integrations popping up seemingly daily, we need to pump the brakes and consider: How are we using these tools, and am I being transparent about using them?
In this article, we will review some popular AI tools, explore their applications, and discuss how we can cite these assets in our content using APA and MLA formats.
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Why is it important to cite AI tools?
In the college teaching and learning landscape, citing sources, especially when using generative AI tools, holds significant importance. Just as it upholds integrity by crediting others and preventing plagiarism, citing generative AI models ensures transparency about the tools used. By incorporating established research and evidence in the form of proper citations, it adds credibility to the work, aligning with academic standards. This practice allows readers to trace back and verify the sources of AI-generated content. Additionally, citing these tools acknowledges and respects the efforts of the original AI developers, emphasizing the scholarly exchange and upholding intellectual standards in the evolving landscape of AI-assisted education.
When should I cite my use of AI tools?
Each citation style has different guidelines for how to cite AI-generated content, but there are some general recommendations. When using generative AI tools, it is most often recommended that you acknowledge when using any content produced by AI generators. Some style guides also suggest acknowledging functional use of AI tools like translating, editing, or organizing information.
- APA Style recommends citing the creator of the generative AI tool used with an in-text citation and adding a corresponding reference in your references list.
- They also suggest including a copy of the full prompt and response text from the generative AI tool used. The full text can be added to an appendix or posted online as supplemental materials. Either the appendix or online supplemental materials should be referencing by an in-text citation.
- Link to APA’s Guidelines for Citing AI
- MLA Style suggests that you cite a generative AI tool whenever you paraphrase, quote, or use any content that was created by AI into your work. This may include text, images, data, or other formats.
- They also recommend acknowledging any functional uses of AI tools like translating words, editing text, or summarizing documents, with a note, a description in your text, or in another suitable location.
- Link to MLA’s Guidelines for Citing AI.
How to cite AI tools in APA Format
Source: University Of Waterloo
APA Citation Style: References | ChatGPT Example
How to cite AI tools in MLA Format
Source: University Of Waterloo
MLA Style References (9th Edition) | Artificial Intelligence and ChatBots Example