The Authors Guild has published an updated version of its AI best practices for writers, clarifying and refining its guidance in response to questions from authors navigating an evolving and often confusing landscape. Two new sections include a breakdown of the specific legal and professional risks writers should be aware of when using AI tools, along with a framework for understanding that not all AI use raises the same concerns. 

The Guild recognizes that many writers are already using AI tools in various ways and should be aware of the current legal and ethical terrain of different uses. As an initial matter, the best practices point out that every major commercially available large language model has been trained on books and other writing without the authors’ permission, compensation or control over the downstream use. 

Among the most important legal considerations: AI-generated text is not copyrightable, and knowingly failing to disclose AI-generated content in a copyright registration application can constitute fraud on the Copyright Office. Many book contracts also include warranties that the manuscript is the author’s original work, meaning undisclosed inclusion of AI-generated text may put a writer in breach. 

The best practices also cover guidance on background uses of AI—including for research, as a sounding board, or fine-tuning a model on your own work without compromising your creative voice and thinking. 

“The updated best practices are intended to provide context and clarity around the legal and ethical questions surrounding the various uses of AI in the writing process. We hope they are helpful for authors as they negotiate whether and how to use this new technology,” said Mary Rasenberger, CEO of the Authors Guild.

Free and accessible to all writers, the best practices were developed in consultation with and approved by the Authors Guild Council, a body of working authors, and draws on existing legal frameworks, including guidance from the Copyright Office, as well as feedback gathered from members. 

Read the guidance on AI Best Practices here.