When doing research it is often necessary to consult other research. Citations are a way of identifying the sources you have quoted, paraphrased, or used in your research and writing. They let others know that they can trust your work and follow or extend your research.

Citations also help you to build your credibility as a scholar. By citing your sources, you are showing respect for the researchers you got your information from. You are also preventing Academic Misconduct, which can lead to serious consequences, including expulsion from the university.

Scholarly writing about literature most often uses Modern Language Association (MLA) guidelines for citations. Other disciplines utilize different citation styles. You can find more information, including examples, on the Citation Help guide.

As of the creation date of this guide, the University of Iowa has largely left the decision up to instructors as to if they allow ChatGPT or other AI generated content to be submitted in their courses. Your instructors for each course you are enrolled in should clearly communicate their ChatGPT/AI policies. Those policies may look like the samples listed here ("What do I put in my syllabus about AI-generated and other externally generated content?") by the Office of Teaching and Learning.

If your instructor allows ChatGPT, you will need to cite it! Otherwise, it is plagiarism and can get you into serious academic trouble. Information on citing ChatGPT or other types of AI in MLA format can be found here or here for APA format.

This video is published under a Creative Commons 3.0 BY-NC-SA US license by the North Carolina State University Libraries. License, credits, and contact information can be found here: https://www.lib.ncsu.edu/videos/citation-very-brief-introduction.