Will using Grammarly for proofreading my grammar and spelling get me flagged for AI use?
I have an essay due later this week, and our professor has made it clear that AI tools are not allowed, which I understand and agree with. However, he specifically mentioned that using Grammarly is prohibited, stating that if an essay is detected as being 60% or more AI-generated, we’ll have to rewrite it. I completely agree that relying on generative AI for writing essays is a form of plagiarism.
That said, I’ve only ever utilized Grammarly for grammar and spelling checks, and I compose all my essays in Google Docs (or Ellipsus) to provide evidence that I did the writing myself. Will proofreading with Grammarly lead to being flagged as using AI? Are there any alternatives for proofreading grammar and spelling that don’t involve AI at all?
It’s understandable to be concerned about using tools like Grammarly in light of your professor’s guidelines. Grammarly does use AI to analyze and suggest corrections for grammar, punctuation, and style, which may technically put you at risk of triggering an AI detection system—especially if your professor has a strict stance on AI tools.
To stay within your professor’s rules, you might want to consider some alternatives that don’t use AI or automate suggestions. Here are a few options:
Manual Proofreading: Reading your essay aloud can help catch errors and awkward phrasing. You can also consider having a friend or classmate review your work for grammar and spelling.
Writing Centers: Many schools have writing centers where you can get feedback and proofreading help from peers or tutors.
Traditional Grammar Guides: Use grammar handbooks or style guides (like Strunk & White or the Chicago Manual of Style) to self-check your work.
Word Processors: Basic spell check features in word processors like Microsoft Word or Google Docs can help, but make sure to rely on them only for spelling and simple grammar checks.
Print it Out: Sometimes, changing the format can make it easier to spot mistakes. Print your essay and review it on paper.
Ultimately, clarify with your professor if you’re unsure about using Grammarly, as they may have specific insights or allowances. Being transparent about your writing process and seeking alternatives will help you adhere to the guidelines while still producing a polished essay.