Generative AI is my research and writing companion. Should I disclose it?

If I use an AI tool for research or to help me create something, do I have to cite it as a source in my finished work? How do you properly characterize AI tools when you use them?”

– Reference seeker

Dear Quotes,

The simple answer is if you are using Generative AI For research purposes, disclosure is probably not necessary. However, if you use the feature is required chatgpt or any other AI tool for composition.

Whenever you feel morally conflicted about disclosing your involvement with AI SoftwareThere are two guiding questions I think you should ask yourself: Have I used AI for research or creation? And its recipient can be AI-assisted composition Feel misled if the tool was revealed to be synthetic instead of organic? Sure, these questions may not map perfectly to every situation, and academics are certainly held to a higher standard when it comes to proper citation, yet I strongly believe that reflective Taking five minutes to do this can help you understand proper usage and avoid unnecessary headaches.

Distinguishing between research and creation is an important first step. If I’m using generative AI as a type The trusted encyclopedia That might point me to other sources or broaden my perspective on a topic, but not as part of the actual writing, I think is less problematic and less likely to smell of deception. Always double-check any facts you come across in the chatbot’s output, and never refer to chatgpt output or Confusion page As a primary source of truth. Most chatbots can now link to external resources on the web, so you can click through to read more. Think of it, in this context, as part of the information infrastructure. ChatGPT may be the road you drive on, but the final destination should be some external link.

Let’s say you decide to use a chatbot to sketch out a first draft, or it comes with text/images/audio/video to mix with you. In this case, I think it’s smarter to err on the side of disclosure. Even Domino’s cheese sticks in the Uber Eats app now include a disclaimer that the food description was generated by AI and may list incorrect ingredients.

Every time you use AI for creation, and in some cases for research, you must hone in on the second question. Essentially, ask yourself if readers or viewers will feel cheated by learning later about those parts of the AI-generated experience. If so, you should use proper attribution by explaining how you used the tool, out of respect for your audience. Not only would it go against making parts of this column undisclosed WIRED’s policyIt would just be a dry and unpleasant experience for both of us.

By first considering the people who are going to enjoy your work and your intentions for creating it, you can add context to your AI use. That context is helpful in getting through difficult situations. In most cases, a Work email Generated by AI and proofread by you is probably fine. Still, using generative AI to draft a condolence email after a death would be an example of insensitivity — and something that Actually happened. If someone on the other end of the communication is trying to connect with you on a personal, emotional level, consider closing that ChatGPT browser tab and exiting one. Notepad and pen.


“How can educators teach teenagers how to use AI tools responsibly and ethically? Do the benefits of AI outweigh the risks?

– Raised hand

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