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Harvard - citing and referencing

What is citing and referencing?

Citing and referencing is how you acknowledge the sources (e.g., books, journal articles, websites) that you have used in your academic work. In-text citations show which source you are referring to. At the end of your work, a reference list gives the full details of the sources.

Cite Them Right online

Cite Them Right provides comprehensive guidelines and examples of how to reference all kinds of sources, including books, articles, websites and many other materials. You can find print copies of the book in our libraries, or you can access the resource online. 

Library Services recommends using Cite Them Right for Harvard style referencing.

Why cite and reference?

When you produce a piece of academic work, it is important to acknowledge other sources that you have used. Citing and referencing is the way that you acknowledge other people's ideas and work in your own essays, assignments and dissertations.

If you do not cite and reference your sources, or if you cite and reference them incorrectly, you could face penalties for academic misconduct and plagiarism. 

Key points for citing and referencing

  • Always cite and acknowledge other people's work and ideas.
  • Be clear and consistent. 
  • Follow the guidance in the course or module handbook.