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!