When should you use in-text citations within your paper?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Question restated: When should you use in-text citations within your paper?

Option 1: when paraphrasing

Explanation: Paraphrasing involves restating someone else’s ideas in your own words. Even though the wording changes, the underlying ideas are still sourced, so an in-text citation is required to acknowledge the original author and avoid plagiarism.

Option 2: when directly quoting

Explanation: Direct quotes reproduce the exact words from a source. In-text citations are essential here to indicate both the source and the page or location of the quotation, giving proper credit and enabling readers to locate the original text.

Option 3: when using generic information from another source

Explanation: Generic information that comes from another source—such as a commonly reported finding, data point, or widely cited claim—still requires attribution unless it is considered common knowledge within the field. In many contexts, attributing even widely known facts helps maintain scholarly rigor and traceability.

Option 4: all of the above

Explanation: This option asserts that every listed scenario requires in-text citations. Since paraphrased material, direct quotes, and sourced information (even if generic) typically require attribution to avoid plagiarism and to support claims, all of these situations generally call for an in-text citation. The overarching principle is that whenever ideas, data, or distinctive information originate from someone else, you should cite it. That means options 1, 2, and 3 each justify citation, and collectively they support the statement in option 4.

Note on misconceptions: Some students think citations are only needed for quotes or for highly specific facts. In reality, paraphrasing still demands attribution because the ideas are not original to you, and generic information drawn from a source can also require citation unless it meets the threshold of common knowledge within the discipline. Ensuring proper citation in all applicable cases helps uphold academic honesty and allows readers to verify sources.

When should you use in-text citations within your paper?

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