Here's the breakdown:
Information that MUST be cited:
* Direct quotes: Any time you use the exact words of another author, you need to enclose those words in quotation marks and provide a citation.
* Paraphrased information: Even if you rephrase someone else's ideas in your own words, you still need to acknowledge the source with a citation.
* Facts and statistics: Unless it's common knowledge (like "the Earth revolves around the Sun"), any specific fact or statistic should be cited to its original source.
* Images, tables, and figures: Any visual content you use that is not your own must be cited.
Why Citations are Important:
* Avoid plagiarism: Citations give credit to the original authors and help you avoid accusations of plagiarism.
* Provide evidence: Citations allow your readers to verify the information you're presenting and to find more information on the topic.
* Show the depth of your research: By citing your sources, you demonstrate the breadth of your research and the credibility of your arguments.
When in doubt, cite it!
It's always better to err on the side of caution and cite information than to risk plagiarizing. If you're unsure whether something needs to be cited, ask your instructor or consult a style guide.
Let me know if you'd like to know more about specific citation styles (like MLA, APA, Chicago) or have any other questions!