bibliottHow to Cite ChatGPT in MLA 9th edition
Official Modern Language Association guidance for generative AI, applied to ChatGPT (OpenAI). Format, in-text citation, and a copy-ready example.
About ChatGPT
ChatGPT is a large-language-model chatbot developed by OpenAI. Citing ChatGPT is increasingly common in academic and professional writing, but the rules differ by style and most instructors expect you to also share the prompt and a copy of the response.
MLA format for ChatGPT
"Prompt as a description of the request." Tool Name, Model version, Publisher, Day Month Year, URL.
"Describe the symbolism of the green light in The Great Gatsby" prompt. ChatGPT, May 7 version, OpenAI, 7 May 2024, chat.openai.com/chat.
Handling the prompt
MLA 9 treats the prompt itself as the title — quote the prompt verbatim (or the first 20 words). The Works Cited entry begins with the prompt.
Information to capture before citing
Treat the AI as the author with OpenAI as the publisher (per APA, Chicago).
Include the date you generated the response — this is the "publication" date.
Note the model version (e.g. GPT-4o) when known.
Most styles ask you to share the prompt as part of the citation or in an appendix.
Recoverability of ChatGPT responses
ChatGPT responses are not retrievable by URL. Save your conversation (Share Link or screenshot) and provide it to your instructor on request.
Cite ChatGPT in another style
Citing ChatGPT — FAQ
Yes. Modern Language Association (9th edition) has explicit guidance for AI-generated content. Treat OpenAI as the publisher and ChatGPT as the work. Always check whether your instructor or journal accepts AI-generated material as a source — many require disclosure.
ChatGPT responses are not retrievable by URL. Save your conversation (Share Link or screenshot) and provide it to your instructor on request.
MLA 9 treats the prompt itself as the title — quote the prompt verbatim (or the first 20 words). The Works Cited entry begins with the prompt.
Cite the version you used. ChatGPT typically displays the model name (GPT-4, GPT-4o) in the interface. If the version isn't shown, cite the date of your conversation — that's enough for most styles.
Not when properly disclosed and cited. Most universities now allow AI assistance with attribution; a few require explicit instructor permission. Always check your course or institutional policy before submitting AI-assisted work.