Citation Style Guides

Why Do We Cite Sources?

A part of education and especially research is the exploration and learning process along the way. More often than not, the things that inspire us come from someone or something else, as such, we should acknowledge that. By citing our sources for any project, show our readers, our viewers, our audience the steps we took to get to the final outcome. Citations will often reflect the overall work that you put into collecting information and exploring ideas.

Credibility and Proof

When we cite our sources, we not only provide proof and context for our information, but we add a layer of credibility to our work. Citations provide additional reading for your readers, if they want to explore your topic further. Citations also provide context for the information and claims that you may have within your work. 

Acknowledgement

Citations also allows us to acknowledge those that came before and provided a foundation for our learning. By giving credit to those who provided information and ideas, you add yourself to the conversation of scholarship.

Credit Where It Is Due

By citing your sources, you provide strength to the sources that helped you throughout the process and strengthens your own knowledge and expertise on the topic. Citations also place your work within the overall context of scholarship on that topic. It adds your voice to the conversation and additionally leaves a trail for your readers or audience to follow.

Avoiding Plagiarism

Most importantly, citing your sources avoids plagiarism. Failing to provide credit will leave you audience assuming that the information is yours and yours alone, when in fact it isn't. As such, you want to make sure that anything that is not originating from you is credited. You wouldn't want someone doing the same against you, right?

So remember that "by citing sources you demonstrate your integrity and skill as a responsible student and participant in your field of study." 

Resources Consulted

• When and Why to Cite Sources, University Libraries, University at Albany