When do I need to reference?

You need to reference when you:

  • express an author’s ideas in your own words (also known as paraphrasing)
  • directly quote someone else's words
  • use or refer to data and images found 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 Incorporating Sources page.

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