Here's why:
* Avoiding Plagiarism: Failing to cite a source, even when summarizing, is plagiarism. You are still using someone else's ideas and presenting them as your own.
* Giving Credit: Proper citation gives credit to the original author and their work.
* Providing Evidence: Citations allow readers to verify your information and explore the source material further if they wish.
* Maintaining Academic Integrity: Citing sources is crucial for maintaining ethical academic practices.
How to cite when summarizing:
* Use a consistent citation style: Choose a style guide (like MLA, APA, Chicago) and follow its rules.
* Include the author, year, and page number (if applicable) in your summary or in a footnote/endnote.
* Use signal phrases: Phrases like "according to..." or "as [author] argues..." help clearly distinguish between your own thoughts and those of the source.
Example:
Original Source: "The internet has revolutionized communication, allowing for instant connection and global interaction." - Smith, J. (2023). The Impact of the Internet. Journal of Technology and Society, 45(2), 123-140.
Summarized Citation:
* "Smith (2023) argues that the internet has fundamentally altered communication, enabling rapid global connectivity."
* "The internet has had a significant impact on communication, leading to instant global connections (Smith, 2023)."
Remember: Always cite your sources, even when summarizing!