How to Cite Sources in a Dissertation Correctly

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How to Cite Sources in a Dissertation Correctly

Correctly citing sources in your dissertation is essential for maintaining academic integrity and avoiding plagiarism. Here’s how to properly cite sources in your dissertation:

1. Understand the Citation Style

  • The most commonly used citation styles in dissertations are APA, MLA, and Chicago. Be sure to follow the citation style required by your institution or field of study. Each style has specific rules for citing different types of sources (books, journal articles, websites, etc.).

2. Use In-Text Citations

  • APA: (Author, Year) – Example: (Smith, 2020)

  • MLA: (Author Page) – Example: (Smith 23)

  • Chicago: (Author Year, Page) – Example: (Smith 2020, 23)

    For direct quotes, always include the page number in the citation (if applicable). For paraphrasing, the page number is optional in some styles but should still be included where appropriate.

3. Create a Comprehensive Reference List

  • At the end of your dissertation, you will need to include a reference list (or bibliography, depending on the citation style). Each entry should include:

    • Author(s): Last name, followed by first initials.

    • Title of the work: Book or article title in italics.

    • Publication details: Publisher name, year of publication, and other necessary details (e.g., journal volume and issue number).

    • DOI or URL: For online sources, include the Digital Object Identifier (DOI) or the full URL.

4. Be Consistent

  • Ensure consistency in formatting throughout the dissertation. If you’re using APA, for example, all references should follow APA style. Make sure that your in-text citations match your reference list exactly.

5. Use Citation Software

  • Tools like Mendeley, Zotero, and EndNote can help you generate citations and format them correctly in the required style. These tools store and organize your references, making it easier to insert them into your dissertation.

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