Why references matter
References acknowledge other people’s ideas and let readers find the evidence behind your claims. Cite direct quotations, paraphrases, data, and arguments that come from a source. A bibliography alone does not replace citations within the text.
APA and Harvard: author and date
APA generally uses author–date citations, such as (Taylor, 2024), with page numbers for direct quotations. Harvard also follows an author–date approach, but exact formatting varies by institution. Follow the version your department specifies.
MLA: author and page
MLA commonly uses the author’s surname and page number, such as (Taylor 42), linked to a Works Cited entry. Keep track of editions and page numbers when taking notes. Refer to the official handbook or your library’s guide for unusual source types.
Check your final reference list
Match each in-text citation with its full reference, check spelling and dates, and apply consistent formatting. Verify citation-generator output manually. Never invent sources or cite a source you have not consulted.