AI fundamentals · 2 MIN READ
Why does AI invent facts and sources?
A language model can write a plausible answer even when it lacks evidence. An invented date, quotation or reference presented as a fact is an AI hallucination.
Why it sounds convincing
The model builds an answer that fits the question linguistically. A report title can therefore look exactly like a real report title without existing. Confident wording, precise page numbers and numerous links tell you little about the quality by themselves. Even a model that can read a source may misidentify who said what or misread a table.
A quotation you should be able to find
If AI claims a report says “one in three participants”, open the report and search for the phrase and number. Read the surrounding section. It may refer to a different group, period or question. If you cannot find support, remove the claim or write what the source actually shows.
Give the model room to report missing information
Ask for an answer supported by a defined set of material, ideally with a section or page reference. Ask the model to flag gaps as well. This gives you a better basis for reviewing it. Carry out the actual check against the source.
Sources
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