Quick Reference Guide
Important Note: These are indicators, not proof. Many of these patterns can appear in human writing. Use multiple indicators together and always talk with students before making accusations.
Look for excessive use of these words (especially multiple in one paper):
Example: "The intricate tapestry of Renaissance art showcases the pivotal role of patronage, underscoring the vibrant cultural landscape of the era."
Watch for sentences ending with vague analysis using present participles:
Example: "The civil rights movement emerged in the 1960s, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and shaping values for generations to come."
Constant reminders about how significant/important everything is:
Repetitive use of three items in lists:
Essays that end with:
Phrases like:
Example: "It's not just about the historical facts; it's about understanding their broader significance."
Claims attributed to no one specific:
Using "from...to..." incorrectly:
Starting with phrases like:
Phrases like:
If you receive digital submissions, look for:
Overuse of long dashes (—) where commas or periods would work better.
Quotation marks that curve instead of straight - though note that many word processors create these automatically.
Paragraphs structured as: Historical Context: Description here. Key Figures: Description here. Modern Implications: Description here.
Each fact is followed by why it's important, even for basic information.
Example: "Shakespeare was born in 1564, marking a pivotal moment in literary history and underscoring the enduring impact of Renaissance culture on modern theater."
Using many different terms for the same person/thing to avoid repetition:
These DON'T reliably indicate AI use:
Look for patterns, not individual words. AI writing tends to be:
But remember: Good student writing can sometimes have these features too. Always combine multiple indicators and have a conversation before making any decisions.
Based on Wikipedia's guide to identifying LLM-generated content. Adapted for educational use.