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Learning APA (American Psychological Association) citation style is crucial for several reasons. Most importantly, you need to learn APA to acknowledge an another author’s works and avoid plagiarism (a serious academic offense).
In this Learning Pathway you will learn the basics of APA citation:
Explaining APA Citation & Formatting
APA citation refers to the style of citing sources and formatting papers as outlined by the American Psychological Association (APA). In APA style, citations provide brief details about the source of information within the text of a document, enabling readers to locate the complete reference in the alphabetical list of references at the end of the paper. The format includes the author’s last name and the publication year, often presented in parentheses. Additionally, the APA style includes specific guidelines for formatting the overall structure of a research paper, including the title page, abstract, and headings. Yorkville University uses APA 7th edition citation across all programs to make it easier to manage your research.
Why is citing sources in APA so important?
Citing sources in university is of paramount importance for various reasons. Firstly, it upholds the principles of academic integrity by giving due credit to the original authors and researchers whose work contributes to the body of knowledge. This not only acknowledges their intellectual efforts but also fosters a culture of honesty and transparency in scholarly endeavors. Proper citation also serves as a validation mechanism, substantiating arguments and claims with evidence from authoritative sources. In a university setting, where the pursuit of knowledge is paramount, citing establishes a clear lineage of ideas and allows for the traceability of information, enabling both educators and students to critically engage with the existing literature. Furthermore, the practice of citing fosters a sense of accountability and responsibility among students, promoting ethical conduct in their academic pursuits. Ultimately, citing in university is not just a procedural requirement; it is a fundamental practice that underpins the credibility, rigor, and intellectual honesty expected in the academic environment.
