Why cite sources?
When you present your research, whether in a paper, on a web page, or in some other format, the bibliography of sources you have consulted documents and gives credit for any quotations or ideas you have used from other people's work. When you document sources appropriately, others interested in your research are able to follow your research path and retrieve the information you used.
Citing electronic sources
The citation format for electronic documents, such as web pages or articles from electronic journals, may require that you include the date on which you accessed the material, and the URL of the document, so be sure to record those as you are doing your research.
Cite Your Sources
There are many different "styles" you may choose from when citing sources. Your professor will probably tell you which "style" is preferred for your class. MLA (Modern Language Association), Chicago, and APA (American Psychological Association) are the three which are used most often by students at The Claremont Colleges.
The following quick guides for citing your sources are from Diana Hacker's Research and Documentation Online.- Documenting Sources in the Humanities (MLA Style)
- Documenting Sources in the Social Sciences (APA Style)
- Documenting Sources in History (Chicago Style)
- Documenting Sources in the Sciences (CSE Style)
- Basic Legal Citation - Cornell Law School
- Brief Guide to Citing Government Publications - The University of Memphis
Recent editions of style manuals, which include more detailed information and examples, are available at the Services Desk in Honnold/Mudd Library.
If you need help on your research project, talk to your professor, stop by the Services Desk at one of the Libraries, make an appointment to talk with a Reference Librarian, or talk with someone in the Writing Resource Center on your campus.