So how do you know when to cite? A few basic rules apply.
1. If you quote a resource, cite it.
2. If you paraphrase someone else's idea or statement, cite it.
3. If you state a fact that is not common knowledge, cite it.
4. If you're unsure, cite it.
Statement |
Cite? |
Reason |
The Internet has brought many changes to the field of journalism. |
No |
Most people are aware of this. |
Newspaper circulation has dropped by 20 percent because of the Internet. |
Yes |
This is a specific fact that is not common knowledge.
Also, readers may want to know where this information came from so that they can evaluate it to see how reliable it is. |
Milner Library - Illinois State University -- https://guides.library.illinoisstate.edu/citing/whycite