As you conduct research on your topic, be sure to make note of the sources you encounter, because most professors will expect you to cite the sources that you use.

By citing sources correctly, you allow readers to locate and further explore the sources you consulted, demonstrate the depth and scope of your research, give credit to others for their ideas, and avoid committing plagiarism.  For more information, see the Rosen Research Guide on Avoiding Plagiarism.

NOTE:
Be careful when using the "Cite This" feature in the library catalog or online databases. Although this feature can be a useful starting point, the citations may contain some errors or omit some required information! Visit our research guides (linked below) to see correct citation examples in the most common citation formats.

There are dozens of different citation style manuals, all with different purposes and audiences.  Always check your syllabus, or check with your professor directly, to find out if you are required to use a particular citation style.
 

At the Rosen College, most professors will ask you to cite your sources in one of the following major styles:

APA Style

Currently in its 6th edition (2010), the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association is the official source for what is commonly known as "APA Style."  The book is located in the Rosen Library reference collection at: REF BF76.7 .P83 2010. For more assistance with APA Style, see the Rosen Research Guide on APA Citation Style.

MLA Style

Currently in its 7th edition (2009), the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers is the official source for what is commonly known as "MLA Style."  The book is located in the Rosen Library reference collection at: LB2369 .G53 2009. For more assistance with MLA Style, see the Rosen Research Guide on MLA Citation Style.

Chicago Style

Currently in its 16th edition (2010), the Chicago Manual of Style is the official source for what is commonly known as "Chicago Style."  The book is located in the Rosen Library reference collection at: REF Z253 .U69 2010. For more assistance with Chicago Style, see the Rosen Research Guide on Chicago Citation Style.

For assistance with other citation styles, you may wish to see the Main UCF Library's research guides on Citation Styles and Citation Style Guides for Government Information.