Here's why:
* Avoid Plagiarism: Failing to cite your sources is plagiarism, which is a serious academic and professional offense.
* Give Credit Where Credit is Due: Citations acknowledge the work and ideas of others, giving them proper credit.
* Support Your Claims: Citations provide evidence for your arguments and show readers where they can find more information.
* Establish Credibility: Properly citing sources demonstrates your research skills and the reliability of your information.
* Follow Ethical Guidelines: Most academic institutions and professional organizations have strict guidelines about citation.
When is it okay to NOT cite?
* Common Knowledge: This refers to information that is widely known and accepted, such as the fact that the Earth revolves around the sun.
* Personal Observations: If you are writing about your own experiences or opinions, you don't need to cite yourself.
* General Facts: Basic facts that are widely available and not attributed to a specific source, such as the population of a city, don't typically require a citation.
In doubt, cite! It's always better to be safe than sorry. If you're unsure whether to cite a particular piece of information, it's always best to err on the side of caution and provide a citation.