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Cite MLA Style 9

How to cite according to the 9th edition of the Modern Language Association.

Cite Generative AI

MLA has published a page tells you how to approach citing AI.

First, the MLA page gives you great advice on when you should cite generative AI. Basically, whenever you have: 

  • Used generative AI to create content that you used in your paper.
  • Used generative AI to edit your text.
  • Used generative AI as a source.

MLA notes that no generative AI should be cited as an author, as generative AI is pulling all content from other sources. 

Then the page gives some great specific examples including some works cited entries, such as this one:

“In 200 words, describe the symbolism of the green light in The Great Gatsby” follow-up prompt to list sources. ChatGPT, 13 Feb. version, OpenAI, 9 Mar. 2023, chat.openai.com/chat.

Note that this example does not include the formatting required for your paper, such as hanging indents. 

Meanwhile, as a student you should know that your instructor or institution may have different or additional criteria for the use of generative AI in your class.