“How to cite ChatGPT” refers to the correct way of acknowledging and referencing ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI, when its content or responses are used in academic papers, publications, blog posts, or professional documentation. Since ChatGPT is not a human author or traditional source, proper citation requires thoughtful adaptation of standard citation formats such as APA, MLA, or Chicago.
Introduction
With the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT in research, writing, and ideation, an important question has emerged: How do you properly cite ChatGPT?
Whether you’re a student, academic, content creator, or professional writer, giving proper credit is essential. However, because ChatGPT is not a traditional human author, referencing it doesn’t follow typical citation rules word-for-word.
In this article, we’ll explore how to cite ChatGPT in various formats, provide practical citation examples, and clarify when and where citation is actually required.
Why It’s Important to Cite ChatGPT
Citation serves three key purposes:
- Transparency: Discloses that AI was used to produce or influence content.
- Accountability: Indicates where information originated for fact-checking or evaluation.
- Academic Integrity: Helps avoid plagiarism by acknowledging non-human contributors.
Citing ChatGPT ensures ethical use and aligns with academic or institutional policies on responsible AI use.
What Makes ChatGPT Unique as a Source
Before citing ChatGPT, it’s important to understand its nature:
- ChatGPT is non-retrievable: its responses are not public or persistent unless saved.
- It generates customized outputs based on user input.
- The content is not peer-reviewed or human-authored.
- It is an AI model developed by OpenAI, not a traditional organization or person.
Because of this, citation guidelines must be adapted to the unique context of AI-generated content.
How to Cite ChatGPT in APA Style (7th Edition)
In-text citation (narrative or parenthetical)
If you’re using content from ChatGPT directly in a document:
(OpenAI, 2023)
Or:
According to OpenAI (2023), …
Reference list entry
Here’s the standard APA-style citation for ChatGPT:
OpenAI. (2023). *ChatGPT* (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat
You can optionally mention the exact date you accessed it:
OpenAI. (2023, March 14). *ChatGPT* [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat
How to Cite ChatGPT in MLA Style (9th Edition)
In-text citation
(OpenAI)
Works Cited entry
OpenAI. *ChatGPT*. 14 Mar. 2023, https://chat.openai.com/chat.
If you want to include the prompt or description of the output, you can add:
OpenAI. *ChatGPT*, 14 Mar. 2023, https://chat.openai.com/chat. Response to prompt: "Explain the concept of cognitive dissonance in simple terms."
How to Cite ChatGPT in Chicago Style (17th Edition)
Footnote format
1. OpenAI, *ChatGPT*, March 14, 2023, https://chat.openai.com/chat.
Bibliography entry
OpenAI. *ChatGPT*. March 14, 2023. https://chat.openai.com/chat.
Again, you may note the prompt if relevant for context.
How to Cite ChatGPT in Academic Work or Papers
When citing ChatGPT for school, university, or scientific papers:
- Check institutional guidelines – many schools have their own AI citation rules.
- Clarify how ChatGPT was used – e.g., for brainstorming, outlining, or direct content generation.
- Avoid over-reliance – AI should support, not substitute, critical thinking and original work.
Some professors may require that you include your ChatGPT prompts and responses in an appendix for transparency.
How to Reference ChatGPT Informally (Blogs, Social Media, etc.)
In informal contexts like blog posts, newsletters, or videos:
- Mention ChatGPT naturally: “According to a ChatGPT response…”
“I asked ChatGPT to break this down, and here’s what it said…” - Provide a screenshot or quote and mention the date and version used (e.g., GPT-4 or GPT-3.5).
- Optionally, link to https://chat.openai.com as a courtesy.
Since there’s no formal requirement in informal media, clarity and honesty are key.
Example Use Cases and Their Citations
Example 1: Using a Direct Quote in an Essay
“Cognitive dissonance is the discomfort felt when a person holds conflicting beliefs or attitudes” (OpenAI, 2023).
Example 2: Using ChatGPT for Content Planning in a Blog
Content ideas were generated using ChatGPT (OpenAI, 2023).
Reference entry:
OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat
Example 3: Using ChatGPT for Coding Help in a Report
Code snippets were adapted from solutions generated by ChatGPT (OpenAI, 2023).
When You Don’t Need to Cite ChatGPT
There are cases when citation isn’t necessary:
- General brainstorming or idea generation
- Personal notes or non-public internal use
- Using ChatGPT to rewrite your own content
If no original output is directly quoted or heavily relied upon, citation is optional. Still, transparency is recommended in professional and academic settings.
Ethical Considerations When Citing ChatGPT
- Avoid misrepresenting AI: ChatGPT doesn’t “know” facts—it generates likely responses.
- Double-check facts: AI-generated info can be wrong or outdated.
- Disclose your method: Let readers know when content is partially AI-assisted.
In high-stakes contexts (e.g., academic research or journalism), AI content should always be verified and cited responsibly.
Conclusion
Knowing how to cite ChatGPT ensures you’re using AI responsibly and transparently. Whether you’re writing a paper, publishing an article, or simply curating online content, proper citation helps your audience understand where your ideas originated and maintains your credibility.
As AI tools become more integrated into writing and research, clear guidelines and honest attribution will remain essential. Follow citation best practices and always aim for clarity over perfection.
