When writing scholarly work, you must cite sources. Make sure to format the citation for the correct style (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.) Have a current edition of your stylebook, as every few years the associations update their stylebooks and the rules can change. You can check online at the Purdue OWL (https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/) for current MLA and APA citation guides.
If you use an exact quotation, you must cite. Make sure the quotation is accurate and that no words are missing. If you delete words from the quotation, use an ellipse ( . . . ).
Sometimes you cite from a source and paraphrase it into your own words. Paraphrases still need to be cited. Cite after each sentence where you “borrow” ideas from another author or source.
Any time you have a number you didn’t count yourself (including percentages, statistics, ratios, etc.), it must be cited to give credit to the source that did the math.
Failure to cite can lead to charges of plagiarism. If you have questions on how to cite, ask a coach or advisor.