To Cite or Not to Cite AI

Send us a text Wondering whether you need to disclose when AI helped you write a blog, email, or proposal? You’re not alone—and this episode is your permission slip to stop second-guessing. In this solo milestone episode, I (Kendra Corman) explore one of the most common questions I get from clients and students: “Do I have to cite AI if I used it to write something?” As someone who’s been ghostwriting for decades and now leans on AI to streamline my work (without letting it take over), I break down when to cite, when not to, and why the intent behind your prompt matters more than the tool itself. We cover: 🎯 When You Should (and Shouldn’t) Cite AI • Why using AI doesn’t automatically mean you need to disclose it • The ghostwriting comparison that changes how you see AI tools • How to know if your prompt makes you the author—or the machine • What style guides like APA and Chicago actually say about AI ✍️ Using AI Ethically Without Losing Your Voice • The difference between AI-generated and AI-assisted content • Real examples of detailed prompts vs. generic outputs • Why editing and injecting your experiences is everything • Why AI is like a really good intern—if you’re the boss 🔍 Avoiding Plagiarism and Building Credibility • The plagiarism pitfalls of lazy prompts • How to check and edit outputs so they reflect your expertise • Why it’s okay to use AI—but not okay to fake originality • How to frame AI as your partner, not your replacement 💬 The Big Takeaway Whether you"re writing proposals, content, or emails—your thoughts, stories, and strategy matter most. If AI is just helping you organize and phrase things more clearly, you likely don’t need to cite it. But if it"s doing the thinking for you? That’s when transparency counts. “AI helps express your thoughts better. But if it is your thoughts? Then give it credit.” – Kendra Corman 🛠 If you’re tired of worrying about whether you’re ‘doing it right’ with AI, this episode offers clarity, confidence, and a practical way to move forward—without sacrificing your voice or your values. 🎧 Listen now and decide for yourself: Are you Team Citation… or Team ‘Typing Buddy with Benefits’? 📬 Connect with me: Website: https://kendracorman.com Email: support@kendracorman.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendracorman/ Looking to leverage AI? Want better results? Want to think about what you want to leverage? Check and see how I am using it for FREE on YouTube. From "Holy cow, it can do that?" to "Wait, how does this work again?" – I"ve got all your AI curiosities covered. It"s the perfect after-podcast snack for your tech-hungry brain. Watch here