Step 7: Compose Citations for Chosen Sources

In this step, you will cover how to find the information you need to cite and where this information should go. Properly citing sources is an important part of research process and can prevent accidental plagiarism.

Find your sources’ publication information in order to create your citations

Major publications, such as books, journal articles, or magazines, will have all the information you need easily listed in order to properly cite them. Other sources, such as websites, images, or non-print sources, may require more work in finding the citation information. Always consult the appropriate style guide for your assignment (such as the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers) if you are unsure about what publication information you need.

The following videos from the Camden Carroll Library and the Raritan Valley Community College Library show where to find the publication information most commonly used to create citations:

Format your citations according to the citation style listed in your assignment

The way you cite your sources you have used will depend on your directions.

Papers/PowerPoint presentations

There are many different citation styles for papers, including MLA, APA, and Chicago. Many websites, like OWL at Purdue University, lay out the most common citation rules, but always consult the style guide if you are unsure of a citation. Your professor will tell you which style to use for your assignment. Each style has a style guide, such as the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, and The Chicago Manual of Style. These are all available to check out at the Information Desk on the first floor of Reese Library for two hours of use inside the Library. 

Speech

You must verbally cite your sources in your speech. You may still be asked to turn in a reference list following a particular style guide (e.g., APA, MLA, or Chicago).