Credit Your Sources with Proper Citation
Credit Your Sources with Proper Citation
Crediting sources is an essential part of academic writing. When incorporating information or ideas from a source, whether through direct quotes or paraphrasing, adhere to the citation style prescribed by your institution or publication. Common styles include APA, MLA, Harvard style citation, and Chicago style format.
For example, in APA style, you’d include the author’s last name and the publication year, like this: (Author, Year). This practice not only upholds academic integrity but also allows readers to trace back and explore the referenced material for a deeper understanding. Remember, the goal is not only to steer clear of plagiarism but to contribute to the scholarly conversation by acknowledging the voices that have shaped your understanding.
Avoid Plagiarism While Quoting
When incorporating quotes into your writing, it’s essential to do so judiciously. Quotations should complement and enhance your ideas rather than overshadow them. For instance, if you’re discussing the impact of globalization on cultural diversity, a well-placed quote from an expert in the field can provide valuable support. When considering how to avoid plagiarism, remember to maintain a balance – use quotes to emphasize key points while ensuring the majority of your text is comprised of your original thoughts and analysis.
Original Famous Quote: ‘The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.’ – Franklin D. Roosevelt
Correct Quoting: In the face of challenges, Franklin D. Roosevelt once famously declared, ‘The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.’
Incorrect Quoting 1: Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, ‘Fear itself is the only thing we have to fear.’
Incorrect Quoting 2: ‘Fear itself is the only thing we have to fear,’ Franklin D. Roosevelt stated.
Explanation: In the correct quoting example, the quote is integrated seamlessly into the sentence, providing context and attributing the statement to Franklin D. Roosevelt. In the first incorrect quoting example, the order of the words in the quote is changed, altering the original phrasing. In the second incorrect quoting example, although the meaning is preserved, the attribution is separated from the quote, which may lead to confusion about the source. When incorporating quotes, it’s important to maintain accuracy in both wording and attribution to ensure proper representation of the original source.
