How Do Citations Work in Chat Answers?
Last updated: 2026-07-21·2 min read
AI Chat attaches citation numbers only to real papers it found through search or that were connected via attachments and context. If an answer has no citations, it's usually because the search toggles are off or no papers are connected — turn on a toggle or add papers, then ask again.
What determines whether a citation is attached?
Citations are attached only to papers AI has actually verified — search results and papers connected via context or attachments. It does not fabricate sources that don't exist.
Why does an answer have no citations?
Because there are no papers to reference. When all search toggles are off and no papers are connected, AI answers from general knowledge only and attaches no citations.
To get cited answers, check at least one of the following:
- Turn on the external paper search toggle — search evidence from a 460M+ paper database
- Turn on the library search toggle — search evidence from your saved papers
- Add context — specify papers or collections to reference
- Attach a PDF — connect a paper you have on hand
How do you check a cited paper?
Click the citation number in an answer to view the paper's details and save it to your library.
Can papers cited in earlier answers be reused?
Yes. Within the same chat, papers cited in earlier answers can continue to be cited in later ones. If you want a clean slate, start a new chat.