Biology

Why do we need to cite all our sources?  Your work, even as a student, is part of the scholarly conversation. Citations are what allow that conversation and exchange of ideas to work across time and space. 

There are two primary reasons for citing sources in a research paper: 

1. To give credit to the authors whose work you have drawn upon

2. To allow readers to track down your sources, so other scholars can see & use your evidence themselves

Which Style to use?   Ask your Professor, Research Mentor, or Research Group Leader!   

There are many style guides for formatting citations and creating bibliographies. The most commonly used in the field of Biology are:

• APA Style - American Psychological Association Style 
• CSE - Council of Science Editors Style 

Some Biology Journals and some Grant Funding Agencies will specify their own specific style for submissions.  Using the correct style is key for two reasons: 

• A certain style may be REQUIRED - and if you use the wrong one you may have to re-do your citations or receive a lower grade 
• Your Professors and fellow researchers may want you to share citations, and this works best if everyone is using the same format. 

Because of this it is best to ask 1st to ensure  you are using the correct style.   

Once you know the style to use, there are guides and tools to help you listed below.

Common Style Guides for Biology

Other Style Guides ~ If the style  you need to use is not listed, please contact the librarian for Biology, Sharon Clayton

Remember - Ask your Research Mentor or Group what Citation Manager to use!