AI FAQ
Find answers to the questions we most often receive at the library about AI.
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How can I use Copilot for my information searching?
You can use Copilot to support your search process, for example by:
- Finding ideas for keywords and alternative subject terms
- Getting inspiration for a topic area
Copilot can be compared to a quick search, as it provides a fast overview and can inspire you on where to continue your search.
Do not use Copilot for:
- Creating ready-made search strings for library databases
- Copilot typically struggles with:
- Boolean logic (AND/OR/NOT)
- Parentheses structure
- Truncation symbols
- Database-specific syntax
- Missing or invented subject terms
Remember:
- The result is not a systematic or reproducible search.
- Copilot provides suggestions, not verified sources.
- Copilot may invent sources or lack knowledge in certain areas.
- Always verify sources in the library’s databases or contact the library if you are unsure.
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Can I use Copilot to find keywords or subject terms?
Yes, you may use Copilot to get suggestions for relevant keywords and subject terms for individual databases.
However, always review the suggestions and assess whether they are suitable for your topic.
Also be aware that Copilot does not always understand discipline-specific terminology.
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May I cite articles found via Copilot?
Please refer to your curriculum, module description, and study guidelines.
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May I use Copilot to translate a foreign-language article?
No, it is not permitted to upload the article or copy the text from the article into Copilot for translation. However, you may share the article’s link (URL, permalink, DOI, PMID) with Copilot and use that to have the article translated.
This option is only available when the article is Open Access. If the article is not Open Access, it is not lawful to share it with Copilot. If you are unsure whether an article is Open Access, please contact the library.
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May I photograph, scan, or upload a printed article to Copilot?
No, you may not photograph, scan, or upload a printed article and share it with Copilot.
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May I copy article abstracts into Copilot for processing?
No, it is not permitted to copy article abstracts into Copilot.
However, you may share the link to the abstract (URL, permalink, DOI, PMID) with Copilot.
Remember:
- The link must be freely accessible, such as on publisher websites or open databases like PubMed, DOAJ, etc., and not behind a login such as CINAHL, Scopus, Embase, etc.
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May I use Copilot to process my own data (e.g., to create tables or charts)?
Yes, this is permitted if you are working with your own data. However, if you are working with confidential or sensitive personal data, you must not share this with Copilot.
Remember:
- Always check your curriculum or technical guidelines for further details.
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May I cite text generated by Copilot?
Yes, this is permitted if your module description in the curriculum or the study guidelines allows the use of Copilot.
Remember:
- If you are allowed to use Copilot, you must clearly state Copilot as a source in your reference list.
Let Copilot help with ideas, but let the library help with precise search techniques.