Guides: LRSN : APA Referencing: Frequently Asked Questions

Dear Librarian:

Dear Librarian,

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I am still confused with referencing? What should I do?

You should contact your portfolio/institute librarian for help. Librarians are able to conduct group or individual training sessions.

I can't find the example reference I need in this guide. What should I do?

In general, a reference should contain the author's name (Who), date of publication (When), title of the work (What), and publication data (Where).

You want your reader to be able to retrieve and use the source, therefore, APA states that when in doubt, provide more information rather than less. Click here for more information.

When you cannot find the example reference you need, choose the example that is most like your source and follow that format. Sometimes you will need to combine elements of more than one reference format. For more information, read: "Writing a Frankenreference".

Alternatively, contact your librarian. He/She will be more than glad to help!

What happens if I can't find all the bibliographic information I need for referencing?

The other place to look for bibliographic information for referencing is the library's catalogue. Or you can search the National Library of Australia catalogue called Trove. If you still can't find the information needed for referencing, read the interesting article below for more information.

"How to Write an APA Style Reference When Information Is Missing"

What is plagiarism?

Copying the words and ideas of others without acknowledging correct ownership is called plagiarism. The solution is learning to correctly reference words or ideas that you have copied within your report or essay. Bear in mind that cutting and pasting from several sources to create a paper (even when correctly referenced) is considered plagiarism. Refer to When to reference and When to use quotes, paraphrases and summaries for more information on proper use of quotes, paraphrases or summaries. (note: quotes should be used sparingly).

To avoid plagiarism, take careful notes as you do your research/gather information to keep track of sources. Use your own words as much as possible and get someone to proof-read your work to check for grammar, sentence structures, spelling, etc.

Plagiarism may result in failure of a unit or entire course, fines, prevention from entry into professional associations and other disciplinary actions. Check with your institute on plagiarism and cheating.

When do I reference?

- Reference the work of individuals whose ideas, theories, research have directly influenced your work.

- Reference whenever providing evidence/information to support what you are writing about or when providing critical definitions or key background information.

- In addition, you must reference when providing facts and figures that are not common knowledge. (ie. Statistics)

What is the difference between a reference list and a bibliography?

A Bibliography is listed after the Reference List. This list refers to all the resources read in preparation of your assignment, whereas, the Reference List refers to resources you have read and used/referenced/cited in your assignment.

How many sources should I have in my assignment?

The number of sources you reference in your work will vary, depending on your lecturer and the type of assignment. Aim to cite/reference one or two sources for each key point in your assignment.

However, because the intent of a literature review is to acquaint readers with all that has been written on a topic, literature reviews typically include a more exhaustive list of citations. Therefore you would have more sources for each key point you make.

Can I copy/quote several paragraphs from the internet, place them in quotation marks and reference them in my assignment?

You may show that you are referencing your work, but it will also show that you have been lazy. Direct quotations should be limited because numerous or lengthy quotes give the impression that the you are taking a less well-researched approach to presenting the subject topic. Your lecturer is more interested in what you have to say in your own words and whether you understand the topic.

(read the following question on: "Can I cut and paste from several sources of information to create an assignment and reference them?")

Can I cut and paste from several sources of information to create an assignment and reference them?

Cutting and pasting from several sources to create a paper (even when correctly referenced) is considered plagiarism. Refer to When to reference and When to use quotes, paraphrases and summaries for more information on proper use of quotes, paraphrases or summaries. (note: quotes should be used sparingly)

When do I italicise a title?

For more information, read : To Italicise or Not to Italicise?

Do I reference within powerpoint presentations?

Yes. You should reference within powerpoint presentations where possible. This is the same as referencing within reports and essays.

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