ChatGPT Turns Two: Transforming research and academic writing

Since its launch on November 30, 2022, ChatGPT has impacted researchers, aiding tasks like academic writing, literature review, and data analysis. While praised for boosting productivity, it has also raised concerns about plagiarism, inaccuracies, and environmental costs. A Wiley survey of 1,043 researchers in early 2024 revealed that 81% had used ChatGPT either personally or professionally, solidifying its position as the most popular AI tool among academics. Three-quarters of respondents emphasised the growing importance of AI skills for researchers in the next five years. 

ChatGPT has left an indelible mark on scholarly publishing. It was estimated to have assisted in writing over 60,000 papers in 2023, representing just over 1% of all articles in the Dimensions database. In the Biomedical Sciences, at least 10% of abstracts in early 2024 were AI-assisted, with this figure rising to 17.5% in Computer Science. Similarly, 6.5–16.9% of peer reviews at top AI conferences during 2023-2024 showed significant AI-generated input.

The tool’s benefits are widely recognised. Researchers report saving time on routine tasks like drafting abstracts, grant applications, and recommendation letters, allowing them to focus on creative and complex problem-solving.

Additionally, ChatGPT has been transformative for non-native English-speaking academics, leveling the playing field in scientific communication. Gabe Gomes, a chemist, highlights how the tool “democratises writing” for researchers worldwide.