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Citing Sources


Citing: Noting the source of a quote, paraphrase or idea as an authority or proof.

Citing is the process of giving credit to the sources you used to write your paper. Citations can be located in the text or at the end of the work in a bibliography. It can be difficult to figure out what needs to be credited.

Use this rule: If you knew a piece of information before you started doing research, generally you do not need to credit it. You also do not need to cite well-known facts, such as dates, which can be found in many encyclopedias. All other information such as quotations, statistics, and ideas should always be cited in your papers.

And remember, if you're not sure if a piece of information should be cited...ASK! Your instructor, librarian, or tutor will be happy to help you figure it out. (Remember: the only stupid question is the one you don't ask...particularly when the consequences are as serious as this!)