A citation is the evidence that you have done research. Citations link your reader to the sources that informed your thinking and show that you are participating in a scholarly conversation. Offering a citation gives your readers and other scholars access to your information sources if they wish to follow-up, or find more information on your topic.
Why should I cite my sources?
- To demonstrate you have considered others' research
- To direct readers to additional information
- To establish credibility as a careful researcher
- To show professional honesty and courtesy
- To avoid issues with plagiarism
What about common knowledge? Are those cited?
- Common knowledge includes facts that are known by a lot of people and can be found in many sources. An example might be the boiling or freezing temperature of water.
- Common knowledge can vary between subject fields, so think about your audience.
- If you have doubts about whether something is common knowledge, ask your instructor or another expert in the discipline.
- When in doubt ... cite!