How to Use Reference Sources
There are a number of reference sources that are available for your use in libraries and on the internet. Knowing how and when to use these sources can be tricky for some people. There are a few things that you can do when using reference sources to make sure you are thorough and accurate in your search for information.
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Instructions
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Find credible sources. Print media like books, journals, and magazines are usually reliable and credible sources. It is easy to locate the writer, publisher and other copyright information for these publications should you need to verify information. The internet is tricky in the sense that anyone can post anything. Even sites that look credible can end up being opinions or blogs.
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Use a variety of different material. Do not rely on one type of source for your reference materials. Find supporting documentation from at least three different places, like books, encyclopedias, newspapers, magazines and journals.
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Find documentation for the issue as a whole. Do not keep only one-sided or biased information that you uncover during your search. Make sure that you understand the entire issue and are knowledgeable about the different sources and opinions.
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Select a writing style. Knowing what information you will need to cite your sources will depend on what type of style guide you are using. Some examples of different styles are Modern Language Association (MLA), Chicago Language Association (CLA) and American Psychological Association (APA).
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid plagiarism. Make sure that the reference materials you choose are indeed intended for reference. Plagiarism is the use of another author's words as your own. Reword and adapt your reference material to be your own writing creation, not the carbon copy of your reference source.
