Science Subject Guide: Cite & Write

Why Cite...

Whenever you quote, paraphrase, or even write a sentence that isn't completely your original idea, you need to cite your sources. Because:

  • It's important to give credit where credit is due.
  • When you use other people's ideas without giving credit, it is called plagiarism.
  • Using citations will allow you to build upon other's ideas and research.

What Is a Citation?

A citation is a reference to the source of information you use.

  • You have citations both within your paper and at the very end.
  • Citations help provide details that your reader can use to locate your sources and information used within.

Cite It Right

Use the citation style required by your professor as many request the use of a specific citation style. The following links provide reliable, online guidance for citing your work in the text and at the end of your document.

Generally, citation styles are used as follows:

In addition, there are many discipline specific citation styles:

Citing Resources

Database Citation Tools

Many library databases have built-in citations tools that auto-create a citation. Typically the major citation styles - APA, MLA, Chicago - are available choices in theses citation tools.

These citations tools should only be considered a starting point, as they may contain formatting errors - always review auto-created citations to ensure they are correct.

Microsoft Word

In Microsoft Word 2013 and Microsoft Word 2010, you can automatically create a bibliography of the sources you used to write your document.
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