Define the permitted task
Distinguish language editing from generating scientific content, analyzing data or creating images. Record the tool, version where available, purpose and sections affected. Check whether the proposed use is permitted before uploading confidential or unpublished material.
Verify every factual output
Check references against the original publications and confirm that the cited source supports the claim. Recheck numbers, calculations, methods and terminology. Plausible wording is not evidence; a nonexistent reference cannot be repaired merely by formatting it correctly.
Preserve an accountable research record
Keep the original text or data, review proposed changes and record substantive decisions. Do not use a tool to invent findings, reconstruct missing data without a defensible method or conceal unattributed source material. Human authors must be able to explain the final work.
Follow the live disclosure instruction
Read the target journal’s current AI policy and use its required location and wording. Do not assume that passing an AI detector proves compliance or authorship. If a policy is unclear, ask the editorial office a specific question before submission.