Question

When should you cite a source?

Option 1: When you take direct words from a source.
Option 2: When you summarize the key details of someone else's ideas.
Option 3: When you take someone else's ideas but rewrite them in your own words.
Option 4: All of these answers are correct.

Answer 1

The correct answer is option 4. You should cite a source when you are quoting directly, paraphrasing, or summarizing another person's ideas. Option 4, all of these answers, is correct as each situation when using another's ideas requires proper attribution to the original author.

Step-by-step explanation:

When determining when to cite a source, it is essential to consider the ways in which you are engaging with the original material. Whether you are quoting directly, paraphrasing the content, or summarizing the key ideas, proper citation is required to credit the original author and to avoid plagiarism.

Not only this, but it also allows your readers to follow your research and understand the foundations of your assertions. When you quote, you take the exact words from a source and they must be accompanied by quotation marks and a citation. Paraphrasing involves rewording the original text into your own language while retaining the original author's ideas. Summarizing means condensing the main points of a source into a brief overview. Each of these uses of an outside source requires a citation.

All these scenarios are instances where citation is necessary, so the correct answer to when you should cite a source is Option 4: All of these answers are correct. Keeping accurate research notes is helpful to ensure you can easily cite your sources correctly and attribute ideas appropriately in your writing.

Consistently using formatted citations like MLA or APA is crucial, whether you're incorporating quotes, paraphrases, or summaries into your work. This process supports academic integrity and enhances the quality and credibility of your writing.