Rule 18 covers "The Internet, Electronic Media, and Other Nonprint Sources". Examples of these sources include Web sites, commercial databases, microform, films, and video and audio recordings.
According to Rule 18.2, The Bluebook prefers citing to traditional print sources "when available, unless there is a digital copy of the source available that is authenticated, official, or an exact copy of the printed source." (Rule 18.2) Rule 18.2.1 further defines "authenticated", "official", and "exact" copies.
Several Bluebook rules address how to cite to online formats of specific materials. For instance:
The 21st edition of The Bluebook does not provide specific rules for citing generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools or outputs, like those from ChatGPT, Lexis+ AI, and similar tools. Some law schools have recommended citation forms for generative AI based on Rule 18 (see, e.g., here and here); however, there is no consensus on a precise format. The forthcoming 22nd edition of The Bluebook, expected in 2025, may provide guidance on citation of generative AI in legal scholarship.
For class assignments, refer to the course syllabus and consult with the professor for specific instructions on using and citing AI. In general, if a an AI tool is used for research, writing, or editing assistance, this fact should be disclosed in the work product. Keep detailed notes on the use of AI, including the specific tool used, the date accessed, and the prompts entered. This information may be necessary for proper citation and can help ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of the work. It is important to remember that you are ultimately responsible for the content of your work, even if AI assistance is permissible on a particular assignment. Always carefully review and verify the information provided by AI tools.
Authors submitting papers to law journals for publication should review the journal's guidelines for AI-related submissions, as some may require acknowledgment of AI use.
As the use of generative AI in legal research and writing continues to evolve, this research guide will be updated to reflect the most current practices and guidelines.