How to know if a ChatGPT answer is true
Check important facts against the original source. A clear answer can still be wrong.
Treat a ChatGPT reply as something to check. Asking it to explain may help you understand its answer. That explanation is not independent proof.
Try a simple check. A made-up notice says the club meets at 2 p.m. A draft says 3 p.m. The notice, not the draft's confident tone, shows what needs to change.
- Pick out the names, numbers, dates and main claims that matter.
- If you gave source text, compare the reply with that text. Look for missing details and added claims.
- For outside facts, open the original source. Check that it exists, is current and supports the exact claim.
- Look for independent evidence when needed. Several pages copying one story are still one source.
- If a fact remains unclear, say so. Get qualified help for a choice about your own health, legal rights or money.
Source for this practice: 'The club meets at 2 p.m. on June 4.' Draft: 'The club meets at 3 p.m. on June 4.' Compare the two. Quote the time from the source. Do not add facts.
Paste the message into ChatGPT, then fill in any blanks before you send it. ChatGPT opens in a new tab. Opening it does not send the message.
For this example, the correct time is 2 p.m. Check it yourself even if ChatGPT gives the same answer.
Sources and more help
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