Librarian for Political Science, Policy Studies, and Government Information
Ask A Librarian!
We want you to spend your time learning, not spinning your wheels trying to find information. Always ask a Librarian if you are having trouble!
Email me for an appointment (contact info is on the left) or use the Ask a Librarian link below. The Chat service is available most days, into the evening. If Chat is not available you can leave a message and someone will get back to you.
- Ask A LibrarianWe have live chat, email, and phone options!
Writing Resources
- GrammarlySet up a free account and upload your paper to check for many common grammar errors.
- Grammar Guide (Purdue OWL)Resources to help you use correct grammar in your writing. Use the sub topics on the left menu.
- Grammar Girl--Quick and Dirty TipsTips on grammar, punctuation, and usage.
Citing Your Sources
When using information from another source you must give credit to the original author or you are plagiarizing. You give credit by citing the source. Make sure your citation contains everything you would need to backtrack and find the information again. It is best to pick one citation style and be consistent.
- Citation and Writing GuidesInformation for APA, MLA, and other citation styles as well as general writing help.
- The Citation Machine -- American Political Science AssociationPlug in the information for many commonly cited types of resources and generate a formated citation. Be sure to check it against a published APSA guide to ensure accuracy.
- APSA Style Guide (Cite Source)Wide range of examples on how to cite in APSA style.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism, whether you copy a paragraph from a book or cut and paste someone else's words from an e-mail, is a violation of Penn State's academic integrity policy.
- What Is Plagiarism?Definition from Penn State
- Academic Integrityexplains plagiarism and other academic integrity issues.
- Plagiarism Goblin GameFrom Lycoming College a game that will cover most common questions about plagiarism.
Academic Integrity
Penn State resources related to Academic Integrity.
- Possible SanctionsThe College of Liberal Arts Policy and Procedures for violations of academic integrity codes,