It seems that neural networks are working technological wonders. Not long ago, they struggled with even the simplest tasks in our competitions, but now they are reaching new heights that cannot be overlooked.
There is reason to believe that progress will continue, and we can expect further advancements in neural networks within the realm of programming competitions.
For this reason, we are explicitly limiting the use of AI-based systems (such as various models like GPT, Gemini, Gemma, Llama, Claude, and others) for solving programming problems.
However, we recognize that AI can be a valuable tool for learning and coding assistance, so we aim to establish clear boundaries for its use.
Application of this Rule:
This rule applies strictly to in-contest participation. This includes both registered contestants and out-of-competition participants in any rated Codeforces round. If a round is unrated and this is explicitly stated in the round announcement or rules, the rule will also apply. Outside of such contests, AI tools may be used freely for practice, learning, or non-competitive problem-solving.
Permitted AI Use:
- Translation of Problem Statements: You may use AI-based systems to translate problem statements, but you must ensure that the system does not interpret or summarize the statement. Only direct translations are allowed.
- Code Completion Tools (e.g., Copilot): AI-based code completion systems may be used, but only for syntax and minor coding suggestions. Using them to generate the core logic or algorithms for solving problems is not permitted.
Prohibited AI Use:
You may not input the problem statement, its summary, any excerpt, or a sub-problem into an AI-based system to receive ready-made code or natural language descriptions of the solution.
You are forbidden from using AI to diagnose or resolve errors based on system feedback (e.g., after receiving a rejected verdict like "Runtime error on test 1" or similar, you are prohibited from asking AI-based systems to help you fix the issue). The use of AI tools that assist with problem understanding, logic creation, or decision-making in a way that substitutes your own reasoning is strictly disallowed.
Guidelines for Proper Use:
- Using AI to generate simple boilerplate code (e.g., input/output functions) is allowed.
- Relying on AI to generate algorithmic logic or the key solution is strictly prohibited.
- If you're unsure whether a particular AI use violates the rules, please consult the competition organizers.
Cheating Detection:
This rule allows us to continue identifying cheating incidents as we did before the AI era. If two contestants’ codes match and the matched code does not exist publicly on the internet prior to the competition round, this will be considered evidence of cheating. This method ensures that AI tools are not used inappropriately to bypass individual effort and maintains the integrity of fair competition.
We will closely monitor the development of AI technologies and will adapt the rules as necessary while balancing fair competition and the benefits of AI-assisted learning.
