A presentation of the Instructional Unit of the

Sacramento State University Library

Tutorial: When to Cite and When Not to Cite

To cite or not to cite?That is the question many students have.In general, cite the sources of…

Dates, statistics, and other numerical data.Facts, especially if someone might dispute

them.Specific information.Information that is new to you.Direct quotes.

The following slides provide examples of when you need to cite and when you don’t.

Read each example, consider whether or not you would cite the source of the information, and then choose your answer by clicking Cite or No Need to Cite.

You still might be unsure.

1. As of 2012, the largest wind turbine in the world will be located in California.

CiteNo Need to Cite

Question 1:

Vitamin deficiencies can cause a variety of health problems.

CiteNo need to cite

Question 2

A recent review of medical literature concluded that “regular vitamin C consumption may reduce the duration but not the severity of cold symptoms.”

CiteNo need to cite

Question 3

English is one of the easiest college majors.

CiteNo need to cite

Question 4

When surveyed by the National Teachers’ Association, high school English teachers indicated high job satisfaction despite feeling overworked and underpaid.

CiteNo need to cite

Question 5

The United States government considers a family of four to be living in poverty if the annual household income is less than $22,314.

CiteNo need to cite

Question 6

Steve Jobs holds 245 U.S. patents.

CiteNo need to cite

Question 7

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is an effective fever reducer.

CiteNo need to cite

Question 8

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are effective pain relievers for babies who are teething.

CiteNo need to cite

Question 9

“Nurses, in general, find their work rewarding and challenging.”

CiteNo need to cite

Question 10