Section 1: Living Guide of AI in the behavioural research process

AI can assist in multiple stages of the research process, from literature reviews to data analysis and report writing.

AI can assist in multiple stages of the research process, from literature reviews to data analysis and report writing. Think of AI as another colleague, able to help and assist (with some limitations) rather than a complete replacement. AI has the ability to enhance the work we are doing, making daily tasks simpler and less onerous, but there are some things to consider before starting a project.

This section presents an up-to-date collection of generative and analytical AI tools potentially useful for different stages of behavioural research. Each tool entry includes essential information such as links, core functionalities, limitations, cost/free access options, special research features (e.g., the ability to gather references and evidence), published research that applied the tool, user perspectives, and the latest update dates.

General reading on how AI empowers research processes

Heidt, A. (2025). AI for research: The ultimate guide to choosing the right tool. Nature, 640(8058), 555–557. https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-025-01069-0

Charness, G., Jabarian, B., & List, J. A. (2025). The next generation of experimental research with LLMs. Nature Human Behaviour, 1–3. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-025-02137-1

Gibney, E. (2025). What are the best AI tools for research? Nature’s guide. Nature. https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-025-00437-0

Khalifa, M., & Albadawy, M. (2024). Using artificial intelligence in academic writing and research: An essential productivity tool. Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine Update, 5, 100145. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmpbup.2024.100145

Developments

We are developing a public Zotero library with key commentary, theory, and applied papers on AI in behavioural research. We welcome contributions via our suggestion form.