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AI Literacy: Identifying AI Content

Your guide to AI concepts, basic skills, tools, and responsible use.

The Importance of Identifying AI Content

AI produces some of the content you consume, which is why identifying AI is important for your efficacy as an engaged citizen and your development as a knowledgeable professional. Below are some ways to identify AI-generated content (for now). As AI rapidly becomes more sophisticated, these tactics will become outdated and need to adjust. Which is why you should always verify information you find online or in AI outputs.

AI Content Examples

Text

Some identifying features of AI generation: very formal tone and grammar, use of professional jargon, no typos. However, this information is verifiably accurate! Your library is the best resource for navigating databases and research assistance. 

Image Some identifying features of AI generation: glossy/airbrushed textures, physics defying features (person's left hand isn't supporting the saucer, light fixture is hanging from an unspecified source, ceiling tiles are wavy), inconsistent lighting (shadow of cup vs shadow of falcon).

Video/Audio

Unnatural cadence, odd inflection, subtle misalignment of mouth shape to words spoken.

Text

  • Incorrect/outdated information​
  • Conflated information​
  • Overly formal​
  • Overuse of buzzwords/fluff​
  • Lack of slang/colloquialisms​
  • Stiff grammar​
  • Unnatural repetition​
  • Lack of typos
  • Abuse of em dash — 

Images

  • Anatomical mistakes
  • Airbrushed/glossy textures​
  • Physics defying features​
  • Too perfect​
  • Alleged source of image conflicting with content​
  • Illegible/nonsensical text

Audio

  • Flat tone​
  • Odd inflection​
  • Unnatural pronunciation
  • Unnaturally consistent cadence​
  • Slurred/jumbled speech