Introduction: Transparency is Your Shield
Using AI in school feels risky. You worry that if you admit to using ChatGPT, you will be accused of cheating. But hiding it is actually riskier.
The best way to protect yourself is Transparency. If you use an AI tool, admit it. Cite it. Show your work.
When you cite AI, you are telling your teacher: "I am not hiding anything. I used this tool as a resource, just like I use a book or a website."
Here is the official guide to citing AI in MLA and APA formats (updated for 2025).
How to Cite AI in MLA Style
MLA is common in English and Humanities classes. The Modern Language Association treats AI prompts as "textual sources."
The Formula:
"Text of Prompt" prompt. Name of AI Tool, version, Company, Date of access, URL.
Example Citation (Works Cited Page):
"Describe the symbolism of the green light in The Great Gatsby" prompt. ChatGPT, 13 Feb. version, OpenAI, 8 Mar. 2025, chat.openai.com.
In-Text Citation:
(Describe the symbolism)
What to Include in Your Paper: MLA suggests sharing the full transcript of your chat as an appendix if your teacher asks for it. This proves exactly what the AI wrote vs. what you wrote.
How to Cite AI in APA Style
APA is common in Science and Psychology classes. They treat AI output as "personal communication" or "software."
The Formula:
Author. (Date). Name of Tool (Version) [Large Language Model]. URL.
Example Citation (Reference List):
OpenAI. (2025). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large Language Model]. [suspicious link removed]
In-Text Citation:
(OpenAI, 2025)
Crucial APA Rule: You must also describe how you used the tool in your method section or introduction.
Example: "I used ChatGPT to brainstorm potential research questions about climate change."
The "AI Disclosure" Statement
Even if you don't use a formal citation, it is smart to add a Disclosure Statement at the end of your assignment.
Copy/Paste This Template:
AI Disclosure: I used [Name of Tool] to help me [Task, e.g., outline my ideas / check my grammar]. All research facts were verified by me using external sources. The final writing and arguments are my own.
Conclusion: Honesty Builds Trust
Teachers aren't "out to get you." They just want to know that you are learning. By citing AI, you demonstrate academic maturity. You show that you understand the difference between using a tool and copying from one.
