Citing your sources doesn't need to be difficult! In fact, many of the databases can do most of the work for you. However, it is extremely important that you always double check database-generated citations for accuracy!
Most of the time all the information you need will be there in the citation, but you need to make sure that capitalization, punctuation, and other formatting are accurate. The boxes below contain information about how to access these citations and resources for checking to make sure they're accurate. If you're ever uncertain whether a citation is correct, contact the library and we'd be happy to check it over for you!
In MILO:
Step 1: Click on the article title.
Step 2: Click the citation button. Make sure the correct style is chosen on the menu on the left, and then copy the citation for use in your paper. Do not forget to double check these citations for accuracy!
In most other databases:
Step 1: Click on the article title.
Step 2: Click the button that says "cite" on the right side of the page under "tools".
Step 3: Scroll down to your desired citation style and copy/paste the citation. Don't forget to double check it for accuracy!
Note: Other databases may look different, but most have some kind of citation generator. Look closely and don't be afraid to hunt around to find it!
In-text citations are needed when you paraphrase from a cited work. This shows your reader which information came from which of the sources in your reference list.
In-text citations should include the author's last name and the year the source was published. Follow the format in the chart below based on how many authors your source has. If the source has two authors, include both of their last names with an ampersand (&). If your source has three or more authors, include the first author's last name followed by "et al.", which means "and others."
| # of Authors | Citation Format |
|---|---|
|
One |
(Walker, 2007) |
| Two | (Walker & Allen, 2004) |
| Three or More | (Walker et al., 1998) |
Don't forget that your in-text citation should go before the period at the end of the sentence you paraphrased!
Make sure everything in your citation is correct! Double check it using the resources below.