* Type of paper: A short, focused research note might have only a handful of crucial references, while a comprehensive literature review or doctoral dissertation could have hundreds.
* Field of study: Some fields are more heavily researched than others, leading to a greater density of relevant literature and thus more citations.
* Argument's scope: A paper making a broad claim will likely need more supporting evidence and thus more references than a paper focusing on a narrow, specific point.
* Journal/publication requirements: Journals often have guidelines or suggested ranges for the number of references. Check the author guidelines carefully.
Instead of aiming for a specific number, focus on relevance and completeness. Include enough references to thoroughly support your arguments and provide context for your work. Avoid over-citing, which can dilute the impact of your contribution, and avoid under-citing, which can weaken the credibility of your claims.
In short, the best approach is to cite comprehensively and appropriately, rather than trying to meet an arbitrary number. Consult the guidelines of your target publication if available.