Final answer:
The final page of a research paper should be a Works Cited page, which lists all sources referenced within the paper and follows specific format guidelines. Each in-text citation must have a corresponding Works Cited entry to avoid plagiarism. The correct answer is option a. Reference or Works Cited page
Step-by-step explanation:
To avoid plagiarism, improper citations, and points deducted from assignments, the final page of a research paper should be the Works Cited page. This page begins on a new page and includes all the sources you referred to in your paper. The Works Cited page provides detailed bibliographical information so that readers can locate the original sources themselves.
Each entry on the Works Cited page should follow specific formatting guidelines. Use one-inch margins, double-space the text, and indent paragraphs one-half inch. Ensure that for every in-text citation within your research paper, there is a corresponding entry in the Works Cited page, and vice versa. Forgetting this match is a form of plagiarism. When it comes to formatting and the order of information, consult the relevant style guide such as MLA, APA, or Chicago, depending on what is required for your assignment.
Accuracy is essential. Cross-reference all in-text citations with the Works Cited page entries to ensure they match. Omitting a citation or misrepresenting a source can lead to plagiarism accusations, which carry severe academic consequences.