Citing Sources

Research papers are based on research. And sources are what you find when you do research. A source can be a book, article, website, interview, etc. And the sources you use to write your paper must be cited.

What's a citation?

A citation acknowledges the sources you used to write your paper. And citations keep you safe from plagiarism. Ask your teacher which citation style to use. A citation has two parts:

1. In-text citations: Usually the source's name or title and page number, included in parenthesis near the direct quotation, paraphrase, summary, etc. in your paper.
2. List of works cited: The bibliography at the end of your paper, which includes information about each source.

Every source you cite in your paper (in-text citation) must appear in your bibliography (list of works cited), and every source listed in your bibliography must appear in your paper.

What does NOT have to be cited?

• Common knowledge: Details that are widely known and can't be argued, like dates.

• Common facts: Facts that are available from a number of sources, like textbooks and encyclopedias.

What DOES have to be cited?

• Uncommon knowledge: Facts that are generally unfamiliar or can be argued and are not available from a number of sources.
• Opinions: Claims made by others (even if you summarize or paraphrase an opinion, it must be cited).
• Direct quotations: Other people's exact words. Whether quotations are from experts or friends, they must be cited.
• Data: Statistics, tables, graphs, and charts from source materials.

Helpful links

• Facts on File: Citing Sources Sign in for access to this resource
• Grolier: How to Cite References Sign in for access to this resource
• SIRS: Citation Guidelines: MLA Format Sign in for access to this resource
• SIRS: Citation Guidelines: APA Format Sign in for access to this resource
• Citation Maker