Lesson: References and Citation Formats

Part 1: Key Terms Related to References and Citation Formats
Before reading further, review these key terms to make sure you understand the language used in this module:

  • References – alphabetical list of all sources cited in a piece of writing (used for APA format)
  • Work cited – alphabetical list of all sources cited in a piece of writing (used for MLA format)
  • Bibliography – list of all materials reviewed and consulted while preparing to write
  • Annotated references – list of references that includes a brief summary of the content of each
  • End notes – notes providing reference or other information placed at the end of the text (common in CMS format)
  • Footnotes – notes providing reference or other information placed at the bottom of the page (common in CMS format)

 

Part 2: Citation Formats
Different journals and academic disciplines use slightly different citation formats. Let's look at some of the most common here.

Abbreviation Full Name    Disciplines Used Characteristics
APA American Psychological Association social sciences

"References" page used at the end

emphasizes publication date
MLA Modern Language Association humanities

"Work Cited" page used at the end

emphasizes author's name
CMS Chicago Manual of Style history

allows for use of end notes and footnotes
NLM National Library of Medicine

medicine

PLOS ONE

similar to MLA

 

Differences in these formats are often small both for in-text and end-of-text citations. The table below provides samples of each for citing an academic journal. The specific formats for journal articles, books, websites, and all other material can be found in the appropriate style guides and various online resources listed in this week's supplemental materials.

In-text Citation Example  End-of-text Citation Example
APA (Reinhardt & Zander, 2011) Reinhardt, J., & Zander, V. (2011). Social networking in an intensive English program classroom: A language socialization perspective. CALICO Journal, 28(2), 326-344.
MLA (Reinhardt & Zander, 2011) Reinhardt, Jonathon, and Victoria Zander. “Social Networking in an Intensive English Program Classroom: A Language Socialization Perspective.” CALICO Journal, vol. 28, no. 2, 2011, pp. 326–344.
CMS *Footnote Reinhardt, Jonathon, and Victoria Zander. "Social Networking in an Intensive English Program Classroom: A Language Socialization Perspective." CALICO Journal 28, no. 2 (2011): 326-44.
NLM (Reinhardt & Zander, 2011) Reinhardt J, Zander V. Social Networking in an Intensive English Program Classroom: A Language Socialization Perspective. CALICO Journal. 2011;28(2):326–44.

 

Part 3: Use of Online "Citation Machines"
There are a variety of sites online designed to automate the citation process. A website called Citation Machine Links to an external site. is very popular. Sites like these often work well and save time. You can enter or simply search for a journal article or book, and once the site finds the reference, it will automatically generate the citation in the format you choose. However, remember to check all information carefully yourself. These sites are not perfect, and mistakes often occur.

 

Part 4: Reference Management Tools
Reference management tools can be a great way for academics to manage large reference libraries. Many of these tools will keep track of all of your online and offline references, automatically generate reference pages for publication, and allow you to share your reference libraries with others. Four of the most common reference management tools are listed here. Be aware that each reference management tool has advantages and disadvantages. Study the features (paid and free) of each carefully before making a decision about which to use.

The University of Toronto offers a nice comparison chart Links to an external site. of the different features and prices of these four reference management tools.