Why Cite
When writing a research paper you will use a wide variety of resources. You are required to cite your sources for two main reasons:
- To give credit to the creator of the original idea. By citing you will avoid any charges of plagiarism.
- To enable readers of your paper to be able to find the resources you have used and consult them to read further on the topic.
For more information, check Why We Cite and How to Avoid Plagiarism.
Citation Managers
What's the best citation management software for me?
So how do you pick the best citation management software for you? There are many factors to consider. For example, if you are an undergraduate student, you might be looking for the fastest and easiest option—something with a short learning curve, which lets you grab citations and produce bibliographies in a snap. Oh, and let's not forget: it needs to be free or cheap.
If you're a graduate student or a faculty member, you might have different considerations: the software needs to work well with the databases you use frequently, it must be able to organize and filter a large number of citations, and it should be able to produce a bibliography in the primary style used in your discipline. If you're working on a research team, you'll also want to make sure the software allows you to collaborate with your colleagues smoothly.
U of T has created this guide comparison chart below to help you examine the different features available and figure out the best option for you. We've adapted it slightly to reflect TMU's resources.
Comparison Chart
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Zotero |
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Mendeley |
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EndNote Web |
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Adapted from University of Toronto Libraries Citation Management
MLA Style
MLA Style is commonly used in the arts, literature and the humanities.
Style and Formatting Help
MLA Formatting and Style Guide from Purdue University Online Writing Lab (OWL)
Official MLA Style Guide
MLA Plus (online version of 9th ed. of the MLA Handbook)
APA Style
*All links and sources reflect APA 7th edition (2019) unless noted.
Style and Formatting Help
APA Style from Purdue University Online Writing Lab (OWL) *Updated for APA 7th edition (2019)
APA FAQ *Updated for APA 7th edition (2019)
Quick Help
Citing sources in the body of your essay
In-Text Citations (Authors and websites)
Creating a Reference List/Bibliography
APA in your Essay
What an APA paper looks like (OWL Purdue)
APA Style Guide (Official Copy)
The Library has multiple copies of the Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th edition). It is available at the following locations:
- Reserve (2nd floor Check-out desk). One copy is available to be checked out for 2 hours.
- 5th floor. One copy is available for regular loan period.
The call number is: BF76.7 .P82 2020