How to Cite ChatGPT in both MLA and APA formats
As the use of AI language models like ChatGPT becomes more common, understanding how to properly cite them in academic writing is crucial.
In this article, we’ll explore why citing ChatGPT and other AI tools matters, when to cite them, and how to do so in both MLA and APA formats.
Why Is It Important to Cite ChatGPT and AI?
Citing ChatGPT and other AI tools is just as essential as cited textbooks, websites, and journal articles. Here’s why:
1. Giving Credit: Citing sources, acknowledges the creators of the content, whether human or AI systems. It upholds ethical standards and professional writing practices.
2. Academic Integrity: Proper citation is a fundamental aspect of academic integrity. Upholding honesty, trust, fairness, and respect is essential for maintaining high academic standards.
When Should You Cite ChatGPT and AI?
You should cite ChatGPT and AI in the following situations:
1. Quoting or Paraphrasing: Whenever you quote or paraphrase text generated by ChatGPT, include proper citations.
2. Methodology or Introduction: In research papers, describe how you used ChatGPT in your methodology section or introduction. Provide the prompt you used and the relevant text generated.
3. Literature Reviews and Essays: For literature reviews or essays, explain how you incorporated ChatGPT into your work.
How to Cite ChatGPT in MLA Style
In MLA style, follow these guidelines:
1. Works Cited Entry:
o Start with the title of the specific prompt you used (in quotation marks).
o Add “ChatGPT” (in italics) and the date of the version you accessed.
o Include “OpenAI” as the author and the general URL of the tool.
Example:
“Text of prompt” prompt. ChatGPT, Day Month version, OpenAI, Day Month Year, chat.openai.com.
“Summarize the book Thus Spoke Zarathustra” prompt. ChatGPT, GPT-4, OpenAI, 30 Jun. 2023, chat.openai.com/chat.
2. In-Text Citation:
o Use a shortened version of the title (three words) in quotation marks.
Example:
(“Summarize the book”)
How to Cite ChatGPT in APA Style
In APA style, follow these guidelines:
1. Reference Entry:
o List “OpenAI” as the author and “ChatGPT” as the title.
o Include the date of the version used (shown on the ChatGPT site).
o Add “Large language model” in square brackets.
o Provide the URL.
Example:
Company. (Year). AI Name (version) [Descriptor]. URL
OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]1
2. In-Text Citation:
o Use “OpenAI” plus the year of the version you used.
Example:
When prompted with “Is the left brain right brain divide real or a metaphor?”, the ChatGPT-generated text indicated that the notion of people being “left-brained” or “right-brained” is an oversimplification and a popular myth (OpenAI, 2023).
How to Cite an AI Image
Citing an AI-generated image involves similar principles. You would credit the AI model or algorithm responsible for creating the image and provide relevant details about its version and source. An example of how to cite an AI image in APA would look like this:
Portrait of Mona Lisa in modern style
[IMAGE]
Note. Image generated with the prompt “Mona Lisa in modern style” by OpenAI, ChatGPT, 2023 (https://chat.openai.com/chat).
Remember to always follow your institution’s guidelines and adapt these citation formats accordingly. As AI tools continue to evolve, staying informed about the latest recommendations is essential for maintaining academic integrity.
The Importance of Citing AI in Academic Writing
Citing the use of AI tools in academic writing is crucial for maintaining research integrity and transparency. As AI-powered writing assistants become more prevalent, it’s essential for researchers and students to properly acknowledge the role of these technologies in their work.
Ethical Considerations
1. Academic Integrity: Citing the use of AI tools is a matter of academic integrity. Failing to acknowledge the use of AI could be considered a form of plagiarism, as the AI-generated content may be presented as the author’s own work.
2. Transparency: Openly disclosing the use of AI in academic writing allows for greater transparency and accountability. This enables readers to better understand the research process and the extent to which AI was involved.
3. Disciplinary Standards: Many academic institutions and journals have specific guidelines or policies regarding the use of AI in writing. Citing AI usage ensures compliance with these standards and maintains the credibility of the research.
Conclusion
Proper citation of ChatGPT and AI tools is crucial. By clearly stating the source of information, trust from readers can be gained, and academic integrity can be maintained. As AI technology continues to advance, citation methods will evolve, so staying updated with the latest information is important.
