Why do we cite?

Citing sources can be an intimidating part of the research process but it's also one of the most important parts! Some of the reasons we cite sources include:

• to give credit to the information creator
• legitimize our points and arguments
• allows us to participate in the scholarly conversation
• points readers to more information on the topic
• it's often an assignment requirement!

When do we cite?

Any time another work is consulted to inform our writing it's important to cite the original work. You may incorporate information from another work into your paper by

• Summarizing, or shortening the original in your own words
• Paraphrasing, or re-stating the original content in your own words
• Using a direct quote from the original.

Make sure to use in-text citations any time you summarize, paraphrase, or use a direct quote from another work, as well as include a citation on your Bibliography or Works Cited page.