What is citation?

In academic research we read works by other people and collect information to act as a foundation for our own work. When we use this information we give credit to the original author. This process is called citation.

Why do we cite?

• Citation allows people reading your work to find the original sources if they want to learn more about something.
• Citation gives people credit for the work they did - you're not taking credit for someone else's work.
• When you cite other people's work it shows that you have done your research and that your arguments are based on a strong foundation.
• If you don't cite properly, you are committing plagiarism Plagiarism is when you present someone else's work or ideas as your own. and risk academic or even legal repercussions.