When do I need to reference?

You need to reference when you express an author’s ideas in your own words (paraphrasing), or when you directly quote their words. You also need to reference data and images you find in your sources.

You do not need to reference when you introduce, analyse, synthesise or conclude your ideas in your own words or refer to common knowledge in your area of study.

For more information, have a look at the Academic Skills Using Sources page

Permalink:

https://library.unimelb.edu.au/recite/help/faqs/introduction-to-citing-and-referencing/when-do-i-need-to-reference