Why should you cite sources?
It is crucial to properly cite any information you use from research in your papers or projects - including information found online. To do otherwise is plagiarism, in violation of Goodwin's Academic Integrity Policy.
However, citing isn't just about avoiding plagiarism. Citing your sources not only "gives credit where credit is due" by identifying authors whose ideas contributed to your own, it also allows readers to locate and explore the sources you consulted, shows the depth and scope of your research, and adds credibility to your ideas and argument. In written academic work, citing sources is standard practice and shows that you are responding and adding something of your own to the academic conversation.
How do you cite sources?
Citations within your text link specific passages in your work to the sources you quoted, paraphrased, or consulted. Depending on the citation style you use, you will do this through in-text parenthetic notes, footnotes, or endnotes. In addition, you must include a bibliography or list of works cited at the end of your paper. The citations within your text point your reader to entries on your bibliography or list of works cited, which provides the reader with all the information he/she needs to locate the source.
How do you choose a citation style?
Often, entire disciplines will adhere to a specific style. For example, psychology often adheres to the APA style, literature often adheres to the MLA style, and history often adheres to the Chicago or Turabian styles. Ask your instructor which style sheet he or she prefers you use. If you are submitting for publication, follow the style guidelines recommended by the publisher.