This guide will assist with selecting and correctly using a citation style while writing papers in scientific disciplines. There are many different styles to choose from when writing a paper, but many fields of study prefer a particular one. If you are unsure which style to use, check with your instructor.
A citation is a reference to a source you used to support your research. Citations give credit to the original author(s) and can be used to locate particular sources and avoid plagiarism.
A citation style dictates the information necessary for a citation and how the information is ordered, as well as punctuation and other formatting.
This guide includes information on commonly used citation styles used in the sciences:
Plagiarism is the act of taking someone else's words or ideas and using them as your own. Often, students will plagiarize unintentionally. To avoid plagiarizing:
Paraphrasing
If you gathered the information or ideas from another source, even if you used your own words, you must cite that source.
Tips for paraphrasing sources: