Blue books make a comeback in the AI era

College professors across the US are reintroducing blue book exams to prevent students from using ChatGPT and other AI tools to cheat.

Since the launch of ChatGPT in 2022, many students have relied on it for a wide range of tasks, from writing essays to completing coding assignments. In response, instructors are shifting to in-person, handwritten tests using old-school blue books.

Sales soar nationwide
Roaring Spring Paper Products, a Pennsylvania-based company, makes most of the blue books sold on campuses, and their demand is booming—sales rose 30% at Texas A&M, 50% at the University of Florida, and 80% at UC Berkeley.

Once nearly obsolete during remote learning, blue books are now making a comeback in classrooms as AI-proof tools.

Educators weigh the trade-off
While many professors believe students should learn how to use AI for real-world tasks, they still rely on blue books to ensure honest work. Handwriting may be painful—but for now, it’s proof of original thinking.