What is a citation?
A citation is a credit or reference to another document or source which documents both influence and authority. There are many rules for the format and use of such citations in different fields.
The use of citations has no simple common practice. Incorrect citation can lead to plagiarism, so one should be cautious. A citation index or manual of style can apply, which summarizes how citations are made in a given field. If you are unsure about what style your citations should reflect, check with your professor or syllabus.
Using citations usually calls for a works cited page or section, bibliography, source list or list of references along with parenthetical citations. Some styles include citations in footnotes, which appear at the end of each page, or endnotes, which appear at the end of the document.
See the Wikipedia article on citation
Finding manuals for creating a citation in the library
Author: Turabian, Kate L. Title: A manual for writers of term papers, theses, and dissertations
Location: MAIN Call Number: LB2369 .T8 1973
Author: Lester, James D., Title: Writing research papers : a complete guide
Location: REFERENCE - Noncirculating Call Number: LB2369 .L4 1976 MLA handbook for writers of research papers
Location: MAIN Call Number: PE1478 .M57 1984
Author: Garson, G. David. Title: Guide to writing empirical papers, theses, and dissertations
Location: REFERENCE – Noncirculating
Temporarily Shelved at DESK RESERVE Call Number: REF LB2369 .G27 2002
On-line help creating a citations
