Citation Resources: Do I need to cite Generative AI such as ChatGPT?

Yes, it is best practice to cite any information pulled from another source, that isn't common knowledge, or your original thought.

Review Dartmouth's guidance on sources and citations, and work with your instructor to determine course specific requirements for citing generative AI. 

It is important to acknowledge the use of generative AI as a part of your research process. If your use doesn't require a formal citation (see examples below), you may need to include an acknowledgment or disclosure statement. Here is an example:

"I acknowledge the use of OpenAI's ChatGPT (August 2025 version) for brainstorming initial research questions. All final wording and analysis is my own". 

Many styles are still developing their guidelines for citing ChatGPT or other generative AI. Content from generative AI is a nonrecoverable source as it can't be retrieved, linked, or even regenerated. A generative AI tool should never be listed as an author.

We recommend that you check your required style guide for the most updated information. If no information is provided, follow the examples provided below.

Example reference and in-text citations for ChatGPT are formatted as follows:

• General Reference:

OpenAI. (2025). ChatGPT [Large language model]. https://chatgpt.com/

• Reference to specific AI Chat:

OpenAI. (2025, August 21). High school grammar concepts [Generative AI chat]. ChatGPT. https://chatgpt.com/share/68a77b60-0ee4-800c-9acc-cd3fd573c311

• Parenthetical citation:

(OpenAI, 2025)

• Narrative citation:

OpenAI (2025)

Example of the reference and in-text citations for ChatGPT are formatted as follows:

• Works Cited example:

Describe the theme of nature in Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park” prompt. ChatGPT, model GPT-4o, OpenAI, 23 Sept. 2024, chatgpt.com/share/66f1b0a0-d704-8000-be9a-85f53c850607.

• In-text citation:

("Describe the theme")

Example: Chicago ChatGPT footnote citation

1. ChatGPT, response to "Explain how to make pizza dough from common household ingredients," OpenAI, March 7, 2023.