Responsible technology
Disclose generative-AI assistance without transferring human responsibility
Transparent use statements should identify the tool, purpose and human verification while keeping authors accountable for the submitted record.
Decide whether the use belongs in the record
Document uses that materially affected language, coding, analysis, images, search, synthesis or another part of the work. Routine spelling support may be treated differently by each journal, so consult the current instructions.
Do not list a generative system as an author. It cannot approve the manuscript, disclose a conflict, consent to publication or accept responsibility for accuracy and integrity.
Describe purpose and oversight
A useful statement names the tool and version when known, explains the task and identifies how the authors checked the output. Avoid vague declarations such as ‘AI was used’ that do not allow the editor to understand its role.
Authors must verify facts, calculations, quotations, citations, code, images and references. Fabricated or unsupported output remains the authors' responsibility even when it originated in a tool.
Protect confidential material
Do not place unpublished manuscripts, reviewer reports, participant information or confidential editorial correspondence into a service unless its data handling is authorized for that material.
Reviewers and editors must follow the confidentiality terms of their invitation and the journal policy. Convenience does not override the duty to protect the unpublished record.
Practical checklist
Practical checklist
- Material uses recorded during the project
- Tool and purpose described precisely
- Human verification documented
- No system named as an author
- Confidential and personal data protected
- Journal-specific policy checked before submission
Official readings
Official readings
These independent resources support the subject of this practice note. Linking them does not imply membership, endorsement or certification of ISAIS.