Referencing is a consistent method of acknowledging another person's ideas which you have used in your own writing. You must reference all sources that you use in your work, including words and ideas, facts, images, videos, audio, websites, statistics, diagrams and data.
There are many acceptable forms of referencing. Subject areas, units and publications specify the appropriate referencing style. Check your unit guide or check with your supervisor for information on which style is required.
Each referencing style has unique formats for constructing in-text citations and reference lists.
Referencing style guides
The referencing styles supported by the Library are international standards, with referencing style guides providing guidance and examples.
| Author-date styles | APA - Chicago Author-Date - MLA |
|---|---|
| Notational styles | ACS - AGLC - Chicago Notes & Bibliography (prev. Footnote) - IEEE - Vancouver |
Why reference?
- Helps to avoid plagiarism
- Demonstrates the depth and the breadth of your research and reading
- Enables other researchers to locate original sources
- Supports and strengthens your argument
How do I reference properly?
Referencing includes two elements:
- A citation within the text of your assignment or paper, indicating the source of a particular concept, phrase or idea that has been originally created by another person.
- A complete reference list giving the full citation details for all sources referred to in the document.
How can I manage my references?
Reference management software such as EndNote will help you to organise and format your references.
Read the Library's guide to EndNote referencing software.
Need more help?
For help with referencing, you can Ask our Librarians.
