For Students: How to Protect Your Work (and Yourself)

 

Let’s be honest: getting accused of cheating, especially with AI involved, is stressful.

Most students aren’t trying to take shortcuts. They’re trying to do the work correctly, follow the rules, and turn things in on time.

Here’s the good news: there are simple habits that can protect you.

Your process matters. Not just the final product.

Here are some helpful habits:

• Save drafts and outlines
• Keep notes or brainstorming (even messy ones)
• Use version history when possible
• Ask your teacher about AI rules before using tools

These things show how you worked, not just what you turned in.

One more important reminder:

AI tools don’t know who wrote something. They only recognize patterns. Clear writing can sometimes look “AI-like,” even when it’s 100% your own.

That’s why keeping proof of your thinking is smart, not suspicious.

You’re allowed to ask questions.
You’re allowed to slow down.
And you deserve fairness.

I have a set of posters for you with all of these rules! It's free! Check it out in a previous post. 

👉 Next up: what parents should know about AI and school.