Artificial Intelligence: A Help or Hindrance to Scientific Writing?

Ann Surg. 2024 Nov 1;280(5):713-718. doi: 10.1097/SLA.0000000000006464. Epub 2024 Aug 1.

Abstract

We have assessed the chatbot Generative Pretrained Transformer, a type of artificial intelligence software designed to simulate conversations with human users, in an experiment designed to test its relevance to scientific writing. chatbot Generative Pretrained Transformer could become a promising and powerful tool for tasks such as automated draft generation, which may be useful in academic activities to make writing work faster and easier. However, the use of this tool in scientific writing raises some ethical concerns and therefore there have been calls for it to be regulated. It may be difficult to recognize whether an abstract or paper is written by a chatbot or a human being because chatbots use advanced techniques, such as natural language processing and machine learning, to generate text that is similar to human writing. To detect the author is a complex task and requires thorough critical reading to reach a conclusion. The aim of this paper is, therefore, to explore the pros and cons of the use of chatbots in scientific writing.

MeSH terms

  • Artificial Intelligence* / ethics
  • Humans
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Software
  • Writing*