ChatGPT and AI: Use Wisely – Plymouth District Library

Summary

ChatGPT is a tool powered by artificial intelligence that "learns" based on the data set it uses. Therefore, it reflects the accuracy and biases of the data it works with. ChatGPT can be a helpful timesaver, but for effective use, users should require citation of sources in order to verify accuracy of output.

ChatGPT is a natural language processing tool that allows you to have human-like conversations with a chatbot. Essentially, artificial intelligence, which powers ChatGPT, studies patterns, experiences, and sifts through large amounts of data to learn. However, if the data set the artificial intelligence uses is false, inaccurate or biased, then the artificial intelligence “learns” improperly. Essentially, the artificial intelligence is only as good as the data it uses.

With that caveat, ChatGPT can be a help in doing some research, tackling a project, or giving you basics about a particular concept. The key is to make it part of your process, and verify independently what ChatGPT is telling you. The most helpful types of uses are for summarizing concepts, writing code, writing essays or speeches, improving your resume or cover letter and helping you organize a project. To be effective using ChatGPT, make your bot cite sources or detail how it came up with your answer.

Your library is here to help you with verifying your sources or augmenting your research.

You can try ChatGPT for yourself at Open AI, https://openai.com/blog/chatgpt