Overview:
1. Learn how to properly cite ChatGPT in MLA, APA 7, and Chicago styles.
2. Understand when and why citation is necessary for AI-generated content.
3. Follow clear examples for in-text and full reference formats.
4. Get best practices for citing ChatGPT ethically and correctly.
Use ready-to-copy citation templates for academic and professional writing.
Citing ChatGPT can be tricky. Is it a person, a tool, or something else? As AI tools like ChatGPT become common in research and writing, it’s important to cite them the right way.
This guide shows you how to cite ChatGPT in MLA, APA, and Chicago styles, with examples and simple rules.
Why You Should Cite ChatGPT
When you use ChatGPT in a paper or article, you must give credit. Just like you would cite a book or article, you should cite AI tools too.
Why? Because:
- It shows honesty and transparency
- It avoids plagiarism
- It helps readers trust your work
Proper citation is a best practice in any kind of writing.
How to Cite ChatGPT in MLA Format
The Modern Language Association (MLA) treats AI as a source, not an author.
MLA In-Text Citation
Write:
(ChatGPT)
Example sentence:
The explanation was helpful and clear (ChatGPT).
MLA Works Cited Format
ChatGPT. Response to “What is the greenhouse effect?” OpenAI, 7 Apr. 2025, chat.openai.com/chat.You can also include the prompt:
ChatGPT. Response to the prompt “Explain Newton’s laws of motion.” OpenAI, 29 Jul. 2025, chat.openai.com.How to Cite ChatGPT in APA Format (7th Edition)
The American Psychological Association (APA) offers two ways to cite ChatGPT.
APA In-Text Citation
If you haven’t saved or shared the ChatGPT response publicly, label it as personal communication:
(ChatGPT, personal communication, July 29, 2025)
Use this when readers can’t access the conversation.
APA Reference List Entry
If you added the ChatGPT output in an appendix or archive:
OpenAI. (2025, July 29). Response from ChatGPT to a user prompt about global warming [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/How to Cite ChatGPT in Chicago Style
The Chicago Manual of Style supports two formats. Pick the one your project requires.
Notes and Bibliography Format
Footnote:
ChatGPT, response to “What is recursion?”, OpenAI, July 29, 2025.Bibliography:
ChatGPT. Response to “What is recursion?” OpenAI, July 29, 2025.
Author-Date Format
Use a short citation like:
(ChatGPT 2025)
How to Properly Cite ChatGPT (Best Practices)
Many citation styles are still updating their rules for AI. But you can follow these simple tips:
- Mention the prompt or context
- Include the date and source
- Write ChatGPT and OpenAI clearly
- Use a consistent style across your work
You can also use tools like BibGuru, Zotero, or Scribbr to generate your citations.
Citation Format Comparison
| Style | In-Text Example | Reference Format Example |
|---|---|---|
| MLA | (ChatGPT) | ChatGPT. Response to prompt… OpenAI, Date, URL |
| APA | (ChatGPT, personal communication, Date) | OpenAI. (2025, Month Day). Response… [LLM]. https://chat.openai.com/ |
| Chicago | (ChatGPT 2025) / Footnote: ChatGPT… | ChatGPT. Response to prompt… OpenAI, Date. |
FAQs on ChatGPT Citation
Can I cite ChatGPT as an author?
No. You cite the tool (ChatGPT) or the company (OpenAI), not a person.
Do I need to cite ChatGPT every time?
Yes. If you use its response in your work, cite it.
What if I change the AI’s words?
You should still cite it. Mention that the response was paraphrased.
Should I include the prompt?
Yes, if it helps readers understand the response better.
Can I use ChatGPT in research papers?
You can—if your teacher, journal, or school allows it. Just cite it properly.
Final Thoughts
Citing ChatGPT is easier than you might think. Whether you’re using MLA, APA (7th edition), or Chicago style, the key is to stay clear and consistent. Mention the prompt, use correct formatting, and give credit to the AI tool.
As AI keeps changing how we write and learn, citing tools like ChatGPT will become even more important. Use this guide to stay ahead.
