Can generative AI help me do research?
Answer
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT can be used for some aspects of your research, such as helping you generate ideas and brainstorm research topics. However, generative AI models are not search engines; they give responses based on the probability of particular words appearing next to each other, based on the data they were trained on. They cannot provide specific sources for the information they generate, and they may generate false information, called “hallucinations.” They also often do not have access to current information. For these reasons, it is important to be cautious about using AI tools for your research.
Some AI tools, like Elicit and Scite, are designed to help you explore and interpret scholarly research.
For more information, visit How to Use AI Tools and Evaluating AI Content.