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AI Citation Guide

The following guide is a general overview of how to cite the use of artificial intelligence of all types

General Disclaimer

As of August 2025, USC does not have an official policy on using generative AI for assignments. Currently, the library recommends that students learn about AI and the various citation methods. Please check with your professor or department regarding their stance on using AI as a tool/resource.

AI FAQ's

Q: Is there an AI disclosure format?

Q: What does an AI attribution statement look like?

  • Answer: Below are some examples of these statements. Place this statement in a beginning blurb of the assingment, or the introduction or methods section of a paper.
    • ChatGPT 3.5 was used to assist in editing the content of this paper for punctuation and tonal corrections.
    • I acknowledge the use of Microsoft 365 Copilot to create the images included in this presentation.

Q: Do I need to use a hanging indent for an AI citation?

  • Answer: Follow the original style you are following. But typically, yes.

Q: Am I allowed to use AI on this assignment?

  • Answer: Check with your professor. Each professor and department have different standards.

Tips and Tricks

  • Cite AI usage when using to edit or if content is formed by generative AI
    • Citing is unnecessary if used to brainstorm ideas
  • When using AI language models to find resources, make sure the journal article or website is accessible to you
  • Continue evaluating the sources you find via AI since not all of the suggestions might be relevant for your assignment
  • Keep in mind that AI scrapes data from the internet up until a certain point in time, so the information you receive might be out of date or untraceable (aka hallucinations)

Student Conduct and Academic Integrity

If you have more questions regarding how to use AI in accordance to the USC honor code, check out the following link