Guide to using AI in your academic work - Exeter

AI can be tricky – our SU guide makes it simple, based on The University of Exeter's rules.

Using AI in Your Assessments -University of Exeter

AI tools, like ChatGPT, Copilot, or Grammarly, are becoming common in study and everyday life.

They can help you:

But you are responsible for all work you submit. Using AI the wrong way — even by mistake — can count as academic misconduct.

A prompt is the question, instruction, or request you give to an AI tool to get it to generate content.
Examples:

Exeter now divides assessments into four categories:

AI-integrated
- AI tools are required as part of the assignment.
- You must include the prompts you used and, if possible, links to any AI outputs in your references.
AI-assisted
- You may use AI to help your work, but ethically and responsibly.
- Prompts and links must be included in your references if you use AI.
AI-Minimal
- You may only use AI for basic checks, like spelling or grammar.
AI-prohibited
- AI tools must not be used for this assessment.

💡 Always check your assessment brief or ask your module tutor to know which category applies.

AI can be helpful, but it cannot replace your own thinking, research, or writing.
Always check facts and references — AI tools can make mistakes or invent facts and references, these are sometimes called 'hallucinations'. This is normal and you will need to check any information AI gives you against a reliable source.
Keep a record of your AI use in case your tutor or the university asks.
For AI-assisted or AI-integrated work, include:
- The AI tool used.
- The prompts you gave.
- Links to outputs (if possible).
Confirm that you followed Exeter’s policy when submitting.

Have I checked if my assessment allows AI?
Do I understand what the AI is doing for me (e.g., spelling, idea generation, drafting)?
Did I check all AI-generated content is accurate and in my own words?
Have I recorded my AI use and acknowledged it if required?

💡 Always read the full University of Exeter guidance on AI in assessments. It explains what’s allowed, how to stay ethical, and how to use AI responsibly. It even has a handy quiz to reassure you of your understanding.

Contact the SU Advice Team: advice@thesu.org.uk