The Research Process

Why do we cite sources? 

• Your professors want to make sure you're using reputable, credible sources.
• If people want to examine the data you use, they need to know where to find it.
• If people want to trace the origins of your argument, they need to know where your ideas come from.
• Authors whose work you use appreciate being given credit.
• If you don't cite your sources, you could be accused of plagiarism.
• As you review your citations, you can examine whose voices may be missing from your argument. 

(Source: Pace Citing Sources Guide)

How do I know which citation style to use?

• Many subjects and disciplines have a standard citation style that they use. For example, sciences frequently use APA while humanities such as English or Language will use MLA. 
• To know which style to use, do a search for your subject area and citation style or locate a professional organization's website.  

You can always check your assignment or with your professor to confirm the citation style you should be using. 

Citation Creation Resources

To create an in-text citation or reference/works cited page citation for any source, you should identify a template to use based on a) your citation style and b) the type of source that you're citing. The resources below can guide you through this process. 

Locating the Permalink

To create certain citations and to keep your sources organized, you will need a reliable link to database sources like articles and books. These are called "permalinks" because they provide a permanent, or stable, link to the resource. Depending on the resource, you may find it in a different location:

EBSCO Databases

ProQuest Databases

QuickSearch

When searching in the Pace Library databases, use the Cite button to access a complete citation for the source you are viewing. The button may appear in different places depending on the database - look for the toolbar. 

Citation managers are software that can help you:

• Keep all your references and reference-related materials in a searchable personal library.
• Synchronize your references with any personal computer using a cloud.
• Share your references with collaborators.
• Use your references in word-processing documents to create formatted citations and bibliographies or independent reference lists.

(Image from Zotero.com)