Citing ChatGPT Content: A Zotero Guide for Librarians and Researchers
As Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT become increasingly integrated into research and writing workflows, the question of how to properly cite content generated by these tools is becoming critical. This article dives into the complexities of citing ChatGPT and offers guidance for using Zotero to manage these citations effectively, especially for librarians creating citation guides.
The Citation Conundrum: Navigating Conflicting Style Guides
The primary challenge in citing ChatGPT lies in the conflicting guidelines offered by different citation styles. As highlighted in a Zotero forum discussion, major styles like MLA, Chicago, and APA offer varying approaches:
- MLA: Recommends against treating ChatGPT as an author, focusing instead on the prompt. MLA Guidelines
- Chicago: Suggests not including ChatGPT in the list of references at all, which deviates from standard citation practices. Chicago Manual of Style
- APA: Advises citing ChatGPT as software, acknowledging the specific version used. APA Style Blog
Zotero and ChatGPT: Finding the Best Item Type
Given these discrepancies, selecting the appropriate item type in Zotero for ChatGPT content requires careful consideration. The "Software" item type emerges as the most versatile option for several reasons:
- APA Compatibility: The "Software" item type aligns well with APA guidelines, allowing you to input "Large Language Model" (or similar) in the "System" field.
- Adaptability: While not perfect for all styles, using "Software" provides a base from which to modify the citation to fit specific style requirements.
- Consistency: Sticking to one item type ("Software") for all ChatGPT prompts ensures uniformity across your Zotero library.
Step-by-Step Guide: Citing ChatGPT as Software in Zotero
Follow these steps to create a Zotero entry for ChatGPT content using the "Software" item type:
- Create New Item: In Zotero, click the "+" icon and select "Software."
- Enter Basic Information:
- Title: Provide a descriptive title for the specific prompt or generated content. Examples: "Summary of Quantum Physics" or "Draft Introduction on Climate Change."
- Author: If required by the style (though often not recommended), consider the organization behind the LLM.
- System: Enter "Large Language Model" or "ChatGPT." This field helps fulfill APA requirements.
- Publisher: Enter the name of the company that developed the LLM (e.g., "OpenAI").
- Date: Enter the date on which you generated the content.
- URL: Include the URL, if applicable.
- Modify for Specific Styles:
- MLA: Consider adding "ChatGPT" as the container title in the "Extra" field and forcing italics using HTML markup (
_ChatGPT_ ) if the style requires it.
- Add the Prompt: Crucially, copy and paste the exact prompt you used into the "Notes" field of the Zotero entry. This ensures transparency and reproducibility.
Addressing Style-Specific Challenges
- MLA Container Issue: MLA treats the AI tool as a "container," which doesn't always translate well to Zotero's structure. Experiment with the "Extra" field to manipulate the citation format.
- Chicago's Exclusion: If following Chicago style strictly, you may need to manually create the citation within your document, excluding it from your Zotero library.
- Version Control: Always record the specific version of ChatGPT used (e.g., GPT-3.5, GPT-4). Add this information to the relevant fields within Zotero.
Why Accuracy and Transparency Matter
Citing AI-generated content demands accuracy and transparency. Providing the prompt, date of generation, and model version allows readers to understand the context of the information. It also acknowledges the tool's role in content creation, fostering ethical research practices.
Zotero: More Than Just Citations
Zotero is a powerful research tool to help you with every stage of research. You can also use Zotero for organizing your research notes, and managing PDFs.
Conclusion: Embracing the Evolving Landscape of AI Citation
As AI technologies continue to evolve, so too will citation practices. While challenges exist, using Zotero strategically, particularly with the "Software" item type, offers a practical solution for managing ChatGPT citations. By prioritizing accuracy, transparency, and adaptation, researchers and librarians can navigate the evolving landscape of AI-assisted research effectively.
