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.
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)
Chicago Manual of Style
Style and Formatting Guides
Chicago Manual of Style 17th Edition from Purdue University Online Writing Lab (OWL)
Chicago Basic Style Guide from Student Learning Support (Toronto Metropolitan University)
Official Versions
Chicago Manual of Style. 17th Edition.
10th floor. Call number: Z253 U69 2017 (1 week loan)
Chicago Manual of Style, 16th Edition
10th floor, Call number: Z253 .U69 2010
- Chicago Manual of Style Online This link opens in a new window
This link opens in a new window
This link opens in a new window
With the full contents of 16th and 17th editions, the Chicago Manual of Style Online provides recommendations on editorial style and publishing practices for the digital age. Not only is it fully searchable, it also encompasses a Q & A session which answers the readers’ style questions. The Chicago Manual of Style is widely used in social science and humanities scholarly submissions.
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
Why we Cite
Information has Value!
Watch one of these videos that explain why we cite from the University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University
Why We Cite |
Citation: A (very) Brief Introduction |
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Here's a break down of why we cite?
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To attribute words and ideas to their original source – simply giving credit where credit is due.
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To provide your readers with a kind of “map”of what you have been reading – to help your readers understand what has influenced your thinking.
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To add weight and credibility to your paper –to demonstrate that you are engaged in the relevant research material
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To provide an easy way for your readers to get access to the source material.
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To situate yourself in an academic community with shared conventions.
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To avoid plagiarism.