What is a bibliography?
A bibliography, also known as a reference list or works cited page, is a list of the resources used or referred to in your paper. This organized list, which is placed at the end of the research paper, offers greater details of your in-text citations.
In the past, bibliographies usually contained references to the books and magazine articles that were cited in the research. But today, a bibliography may also include citations to video, audio, and other web resources.
Why do I need a bibliography?
An accurate bibliography carries out two important functions. First, it helps the reader locate the sources cited in your research paper.
Just as importantly, good citations and bibliographies give due credit to the authors you cite in your paper. Acknowledging the work of others helps protect you from accusations of plagiarism, which is the uncredited use of material by other writers.
back to top
Library Web Page
Technical Contact : John Erdmann, Faculty Librarian, 415.485.9423