Why Should I Cite?

To Avoid Plagiarism

One reason you should cite is that proper citation helps you avoid plagiarism. As you progress in your education, it is important that you acknowledge when you use other people's ideas. It adds credibility to your writing, and forms a great foundation for you to then build your own argument.

Want more information about how to avoid plagiarism? Check out Avoiding Plagiarism Links to an external site..

To Join the Scholarly Conversation

Along with avoiding plagiarism, proper citation shows that you are part of the ongoing discussion that scholars are having about this subject. This is called joining the scholarly conversation.

When you let your readers know who you are citing, they are able to validate your points and maybe even cite your source in a paper they write.