HOW TO: Cite Sources: Overview

Each and every time information is taken from a source (whether it is taken as an exact quote, re-worded, or paraphrased) and used in a research project, credit must be given to the original source of information.  Typically, that is done in two ways:

• parenthetical, or in-text citations provide a brief notation of the author, date and/or page number
• lists of references, or works-cited provide complete publication or other information that would allow the reader to locate the complete source

Most research projects require both in-text citations and a list of works cited at the end of the project.

Plagiarism can be avoided by using information in an ethical way. Documentation ensures that the original creator of a source is properly acknowledged each time his or her words, information, ideas, or images are used in another work.

Proper documentation is done both in the text of a project and in a works cited or references list at the end of the project.  This serves several purposes, including:

• providing complete publication information for a source
• giving credit to the original creator of a source
• enabling the reader to more easily find the original source
• providing a standardized style for recording that information.