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ENGL 2 (Antongiovanni): Cite Sources

A guide to library resources for English 2 with Antongiovanni.

Using citations

Writing a research paper requires that you:

  • use outside resources for information
  • let readers know where that information came from
  • make it easy for readers to find the information themselves

That's what citations are for.  Unless you are stating your own ideas or common knowledge (such as that the Earth revolves around the sun), you will have to cite the source where the idea comes from.

Citing the sources you use in your paper:

  • gives credit to the author of the original source
  • avoids plagiarism
  • allows your readers to identify the source for further study
  • shows that your position is well-researched

Your instructor will probably ask you to use one of the following styles.  Just follow the links to see the complete guides to each:

To learn all about using citations in your work, check out our Citations: Start to Finish guide.

Getting Citations from Library Databases

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is the unacknowledged use of another person's words or ideas as if they are your own. This includes:

  • taking someone else's paper and turning it in as your own
  • copying sentences word-for-word from a source
  • quoting someone's words without quotations
  • paraphrasing someone's idea without giving credit
  • using a substantial amount of information from someone else that makes up a majority of your paper even though you have given credit to the original source

Plagiarism is an academic offense and can have severe consequences. At Butte College, the consequences of plagiarism can range from failing a course to long-term suspension from the College.

While some students plagiarize deliberately, many students commit plagiarism unintentionally. It is important to be aware of different forms of plagiarism; make sure you use the information ethically and cite the sources correctly to avoid problems. 

CIte in MLA

Use the links below to find out how to format your MLA style paper, in-text citations, and works cited list.

Cite in APA

Use the links below to find out how to format your APA style paper, in-text citations, and reference list.  Now using 7th edition!

Citation Generators

The citation generator links below can help you format your citations using forms and prompts. Just choose your style and type of source.

Need More Help?

Get your paper and citations checked at the Center for Academic Success (CAS).