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BY 109: Introduction to Biodiversity and Evolution

Why Cite?

Citation is your indication that certain material in your work came from another source. It also provides readers with the information necessary to find that source again. Giving credit to the original author by citing sources is the only way to use other people's work without plagiarizing.

The following situations almost always require citation:

  • quotation
  • paraphrasing
  • use of an idea not your own
  • specific reference to the work of another
  • use of someone else's work to develop your own ideas

Adapted from: Plagiarism.org

Citation Style Guides

A citation serves two main purposes: it gives credit to the author, artist, or creator, and it allows your reader to find the book, article, or photograph.

A style guide shows you how to format your footnotes, bibliographies, or works cited lists. The style format you use (ALA, MLA, Chicago) depends on your field of inquiry.

Citation style manuals are available at the Reference Desk.

Citation Managers

Citation Managers can help you keep track of your references and share your citations.  They can help you create a bibliography and organize your work more easily.

How to Avoid Accidental (Unintentional) Plagiarism

Monmouth University Library Tutorial on Plagiarism

Complete the plagiarism tutorial below and you'll be an expert in less than ten minutes!