Head Librarian
Amy Deuink
she/her/hers
Contact:
Penn State Beaver Library &
Penn State Shenango Lartz Memorial Library
Penn State Shenango Lartz Memorial Library
724-773-3791
Why We Cite Our Sources
In this and future courses, you will be expected to cite your sources following the APA citation style (7th ed). Have you ever wondered why you're expected to cite your sources? Why there are "rules" about how it's supposed to be done?
Citing matters!
- We cite to acknowledge other content creators
- We cite to provide a reliable path back to the source for our readers
When we cite our sources, we:
- Join the academic conversation--and you are young scholars in your field!
- Demonstrate academic integrity (and avoid plagiarism)
Formatting matters!
- We communicate more clearly with others when we understand the basic building blocks and follow the established style
- We can easily skim (and quickly evaluate) reference lists for important information like currency (date), notable authors, reputable sources, types of sources used when we understand formatting basics
The Guides
Show Me How It's Done
Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed) by Call Number: BF76.7.P83 2020ISBN: 9781433832154Publication Date: 2020The definitive guide on citing sources and formatting your writing following APA style guidelines.
"Known for its authoritative, easy-to-use reference and citation system, the Publication Manual also offers guidance on choosing the headings, tables, figures, language, and tone that will result in powerful, concise, and elegant scholarly communication. It guides users through the scholarly writing process--from the ethics of authorship to reporting research through publication. The seventh edition is an indispensable resource for students and professionals to achieve excellence in writing and make an impact with their work."
Recommended Online Guides
- References - APA Style and Grammar GuidelinesBy the APA, a quick guide to preparing a reference list. Formatting examples for commonly cited sources.
- In-text Citations - APA Style and Grammar GuidelinesBy the APA, a quick guide to citing your sources in the body of your work. Formatting examples for various situations.
Guide prepared by the University Libraries with answers to questions commonly asked by students.
Citation Tools
Just need a quick reference? Try ZoteroBib for accuracy.
Want to start building your own personal library? Zotero has tools to organize your research, annotate your readings, create your reference list... and more!
- Getting Started with ZoteroGeneral overview by Drake Memorial Library
- Using Zotero on iPadsQuick guide created by Cal Poly Humboldt Libraries
- Using Zotero on ChromebooksQuick guide by Wake Forest University Libraries