General Approach:
The basic principle is to cite the source you *did* read (the secondary source) in your bibliography/works cited page. In your in-text citation, you should indicate both the secondary source and the original source. This lets your reader know where the information ultimately comes from.
Examples in Different Citation Styles:
MLA:
* In-text citation: (Author of original source, year, as cited in Author of secondary source, year, page number).
* Example: (Smith 1998, as cited in Jones 2023, p. 15). This indicates that the information comes from Smith's 1998 work, but you accessed it through Jones's 2023 book, page 15.
* Works Cited entry: You only list the secondary source (Jones) in your Works Cited page.
APA:
* In-text citation: (Author of original source, year, as cited in Author of secondary source, year, page number).
* Example: (Smith, 1998, as cited in Jones, 2023, p. 15).
* References entry: You only list the secondary source (Jones) in your References page.
Chicago (Notes and Bibliography):
* Footnote/Endnote: Author of original source, *Title of Original Source*, (place of publication: publisher, year), p. page number, as cited in Author of secondary source, *Title of Secondary Source*, (place of publication: publisher, year), p. page number.
* Example: Smith, *The Original Work*, (New York: Publisher, 1998), p. 10, as cited in Jones, *Secondary Source Title*, (London: Another Publisher, 2023), p. 15.
* Bibliography entry: You only list the secondary source (Jones) in your bibliography.
Important Considerations:
* Whenever possible, try to find and read the original source. Relying on secondary sources can distort the original author's meaning and weaken your argument. It's always better to consult the primary source directly.
* Be aware of potential bias. The secondary author may interpret the original source in a way that suits their own agenda. Be critical and consider other perspectives.
* Clearly indicate the secondary nature of your information. Using phrases like "as cited in," "according to," or "as reported by" helps make it clear you're not claiming the information as your own original research.
* Check your style guide. Different style guides have slightly different preferences for citing secondary sources. Always refer to the specific guide your institution or publication requires.
By following these guidelines, you can properly cite secondary sources and avoid any accusations of plagiarism while still acknowledging the intellectual contributions of both the original author and the source you consulted.