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APA 7th Edition Citation Guide
AI Content

AI Chatbots (ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, etc.)

When using AI chatbots as a resource, it is impossible for readers to reproduce the exact same text that the writer used in their paper. Therefore, the writer must describe how they used the chatbot in the methods section or a comparable section of the paper. 

Example:

When prompted with "How does stretching before exercise improve an individual's workout?" the ChatGPT-generated text suggests it helps with flexibility, circulation, and muscle stiffness. It also helps prevent injury: "dynamic stretching before exercise can help activate and prepare the muscles for the specific movements involved in your workout. This can reduce the risk of injuries by ensuring that your muscles and joints are ready for the demands of your chosen activity" (OpenAI, 2024). 

 


Reference Page Format:

Chatbot Name. (Year). Chatbot (Month Day version) [Large language model]. Hyperlink

Reference Page Example:

OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (Jan 22 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/c/65ae646f-4199-4902-b156-5b38ef71ba7a

 

In-text Citation Examples:

OpenAI (2024)...

...(OpenAI, 2024).

Image Generators

AI-generated images should be cited similarly to other nonrecoverable sources, treating the AI as the creator. Since AI tools do not have a traditional author, you should list the AI tool as the author and include details about the generation process. If you used your own prompt to generate the image and want to clarify authorship, you should add a note in your text.

Example:

I created an AI-generated image using Adobe Image Generator to illustrate this concept, using the prompt "a blue cat eating ice cubes in front of mountains." 


Reference Page Format:

AI Image Generator Name. (Year). Description of Image [AI-Generated Image]. Hyperlink

Reference Page Example:

Adobe Image Generator. (2025). A blue cat eating ice cubes in front of mountains [AI-Generate Image]. blob:https://new.express.adobe.com/2d83dabd-0bdd-4c71-b6c8-df31a07dce28

 

In-text Citation Examples:

Adobe Image Generator (2025)...

...(Adobe Image Generator, 2025).