Citation Help: Getting Started

Why should I bother to include citations in my research papers?

You should always site your sources

• to give credit to authors/creators used.
• to lend credibility to your work.
• to help readers locate sources papers, projects, and speeches.

When is it necessary to cite a source?

Whenever quoting or paraphrasing someone else’s ideas, to avoid plagiarism you must cite your source.

What does it mean if a source is “in the public domain”?

If a source is listed in the public domain, it can be used freely by anyone--but you still need to cite it!

What is it called when copyrighted works can be used for teaching, research, and other educational purposes?

This is called "Fair Use.”

Do I need to cite “fair use” sources?

Yes, you always need to cite your sources!

Which types of sources need citations?

All types of sources need citations: books and articles, interviews and speeches, government documents, reports, pamphlets, non-print media (videos, CDs, music), and computer software.

Where can my friends and I go for help on citing sources?

• ask your instructor or library staff for help.
• check to see if the databases provide accurate citations.
• look under database HELP tabs.
• ask at the Circulation Desk for manuals and handbooks, like the APA and MLA style guides.