How to Cite ChatGPT in MLA?
As the world continues to evolve, so do the tools we use for research and writing. One of the most revolutionary tools to emerge in recent years is generative AI, such as ChatGPT, which alters the way we approach information gathering and content production. Yet, with these advancements come new questions—how do we wholeheartedly integrate these AI-generated responses into our traditional writing practices? More specifically, how do we cite ChatGPT in Modern Language Association (MLA) style? Let’s unravel this conundrum in detail.
How do I cite ChatGPT & Other AI Tools in MLA Style?
The citation of AI-generated content brings a series of unique challenges, but don’t fret, we’re here to break it down for you—piece by piece! According to the MLA’s guidelines as of March 17, 2023, the format for citing ChatGPT or any similar generative AI can be distilled into a simple set of rules. Here’s what you need to know:
1. The Prompt Comes First
Yes, you read that correctly! The primary element for your citation starts with the exact prompt. This means if you are using ChatGPT to answer a specific question or create content, you should use the complete text of the prompt as the title of the source. It might seem unusual, but it ensures that there is transparency regarding the main input that led to the response you are referencing.
2. Skip the Author Title
In traditional MLA style, every source has an author. However, when it comes to generative AI tools like ChatGPT, the AI itself should not be treated as the author. The rationale behind this is simple: AI does not possess agency or intention. It’s a tool responding to your guidance. Therefore, you place the tool’s name—ChatGPT—after the prompt instead of treating it as the author.
3. Version and Company Name
After the prompt and the AI’s name, you will then include the version number or name. This is crucial because AI programs are frequently updated, and their functionality can change dramatically from one version to the next. Next, state the name of the company that developed the program—in this case, OpenAI.
4. Date of Creation
Then, you indicate when the AI response was generated. This is particularly important to ensure that others understand the context and time-relevance of the information you are culling from the AI. It’s straightforward—just choose the specific day, month, and year format, e.g., « 26 Sept. 2023 ».
5. The URL
To finish off, you will need to provide the URL for the main site where the tool can be accessed. However, keep in mind that as of now, there is no specific way to link directly to AI-generated material. So you’ll want to include the general URL of the tool’s website instead.
Putting It All Together
Now that we’ve dissected the components, it’s essential to see how everything fits into one comprehensive citation. Let’s use an example for clarity:
“Describe a rose in 2 paragraphs” prompt. ChatGPT, 25 Sept. version, OpenAI, 26 Sept. 2023, chat.openai.com/chat.
In this example, you can see that we have accurately assembled the citation by starting with the prompt, followed by the AI tool name, version, the company that developed it, the date, and the URL. Voila! You now have an MLA citation that properly credits the source of your AI-generated content.
Using In-Text Citations
Just as you would with any other source, you also need to make in-text citations when incorporating content from ChatGPT. For MLA in-text citation: you typically shorten the prompt to its first 2-3 words, providing clarity and flow within your writing. For example, if you’re referencing the previous prompt, your in-text citation would simply read: (“Describe a rose”).
What If I Have a Long Prompt?
Let’s be honest—sometimes prompts can run long, or you may find yourself working with multiple prompts. In such scenarios, it’s essential to communicate with your professor or the relevant authority regarding how to handle citations effectively. They might suggest abbreviating the prompt or even placing the full text in an appendix to avoid clutter in your main document.
Staying Current with MLA Guidelines
An important aspect to consider is that the way we cite sources is rapidly evolving. As AI technology continues to develop, so too will the guidelines surrounding its usage. The MLA stands committed to providing updated information as it becomes available. For the most up-to-date practices, take the time to review the MLA’s full announcement on this topic. If you find yourself in need of further assistance, reaching out to a librarian is always a good idea. They can offer guidance that is specifically tailored to your situation.
Wrapping It Up
In capturing this entire process, we’ve highlighted the unique approaches needed to cite generative AI tools like ChatGPT in MLA format. It’s a brave new world of technology and academia, and as daunting as it can seem, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to tackle these novel citation challenges head-on! You’re not just a writer; you’re an adventurer traversing the intersection of technology and traditional citation practices.
So, go forth and embrace the potential of AI in your work, while staying true to the standards of scholarly writing. Remember to cite correctly, stay tuned for updates, and above all, let your creativity shine! Happy citing!