Citations are a crucial part of what makes a successful research paper. Other important parts include your own original ideas, and the facts that you’ve gathered. Citations not only show your professors the path that you took to reach your conclusions, but you’ll also have a handy reference list to show you’ve worked hard to find sources that help shape what you’ve written.
The following video will help you understand why citations are so important.
It is not necessary to cite what is considered common knowledge. How do you know what that entails? The MLA Handbook, 8th edition gives a brief explanation of common knowledge; “Common knowledge includes information widely available in reference works, such as basic biographical facts about prominent persons and the dates and circumstances of major historical events. When the facts are in dispute…it is good practice to document the material…” (p. 10)
Common knowledge depends upon your readership. What is common in one culture, country, discipline, etc. may not be common knowledge in another. Know your audience. If there is any question, it is best to cite your information.
Take our Plagiarism Quiz to gain a better understanding of when you need to cite resources.
Learning to properly cite references following a specific citation style can be tricky. For help with citing with the most common citation styles, check out our Citation Help page.
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