Final answer:
Citing sources in Megan's research paper is crucial as it provides credit to original authors and lends credibility to her work. Evaluating sources for reliability and using tools like MLA for proper citation are key aspects of the research process.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Megan completes her research paper discussing the most influential leader and uses Franklin D. Roosevelt's quote, citing her sources is considered one of the most important steps of the research process. Citations are pivotal for several reasons: they give credit to the original authors, they provide credibility to the research by showing that it is backed by established work, and they allow readers to locate the original sources if they wish to find more information.
Throughout the research process, it is essential to keep a research log and to evaluate the reliability of the sources. Secondary research should bolster original ideas, not replace them. Using tools from recognized organizations like the Modern Language Association (MLA) can aid in researching and managing source materials appropriately. After synthesizing information, Megan reflects on her sources' quality and their impact on the research, using them effectively to support, contradict, or expand upon her ideas.