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Conclusion to the Citation Tutor

Congratulations! You have now completed this exercise. The Citation Tutor hopes that you have expanded your understanding of why, when, and how to cite your sources.

As you can see, citations constitute an efficient method of talking with your readers in a way that they will understand if they are familiar with citation style. In one sense, the style you use constitutes a code that you and your reader both use in order for you to guide the reader and for the reader to assess and find the sources on which you rely. Your using a consistent citation style both guides discerning readers and helps answer their ever-present question: Why should I believe you?

Now that you know the purposes of citations and bibliography and how to decipher them, you should be a better, more discerning reader. The Citation Tutor hopes that you will find yourself making note of sources cited and frequently referring to the bibliography of each book or article you read. You should also check out sources cited, not only for your general edification but also to assess what you are reading. Always, in the back of your mind you should be asking of the author, as you read, why should I believe you? The extent and quality of sources offered should help you answer that question.

Do take further advantage of the electronic links provided here. Read their content carefully and bookmark them for future reference.

Feel free to go through this exercise repeatedly by answering the questions once again and reading the explanations until you feel fully competent to cite your sources properly. Keep a record of how well you do each time and challenge yourself to do better the next. Good citing to you!

Return to the Citation Quiz homepage
Return to Topic 5: Graduate Research and Writing

Thanks go to Layla Bonnot for important technical assistance, Andrew Shappert for his Web expertise and help, Alisha Klapholz for her superb editorial skills and assistance in finding the Web sources for you to consult for more information, and Beth Eck and Ann Baker for their consistent support in making the Citation Tutor possible.

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