Using Generative AI To Do Research

The tools described in this section of the guide are a sub-genre of generative AI tools that are often described as research discovery and workflow tools because they are based on models that draw on large datasets of scholarly information. 

These tools work with scholarly resources like articles to search and analyze them, extract key information, generate literature maps and summaries, or provide features common with citation tools. In a nutshell, they are often billed as helping to automate research workflows.

How Library E-Resources Compare
For assignments or research projects that require use of scholarly sources, start by searching the library's academic discovery layer, OMNI, or the library's databases. The coverage is more comprehensive than the tools found here.

Access Entitlements (Free or Fee?)
As long as you are a registered current student at York University Libraries, access to the library's rich suite of scholarly e-resources will be available to you, while not all AI research discovery and workflow tools are free, though in the tabbed boxes above we do distinguish between free and freemium sources.

Always apply critical thinking
When using AI tools, apply critical thinking to ensure accuracy, responsible use, and reliability. Critical thinking skills are used when you corroborate AI-generated information with other, reliable evidence, when you question the results, and when you remain mindful of any ethical considerations, such as bias. Get into the habit of treating AI tools as helpful starting points, but not as the final authority on any topic.

We endeavour to share with you a selected range of AI research discovery and workflow tools here and give you pointers on what they can do.

We are not endorsing any specific tools, and as with any type of technology or information source, we encourage you to critically evaluate what it offers or generates and to use it in tandem with the library's subscription e-resources.