Referencing your work
Referencing is a key academic skill and an essential part of academic integrity. Whenever you use someone else’s ideas, research, or words in your work, you must clearly acknowledge the source. This applies to all assessments, across all programmes and awarding universities.
What is referencing?
Referencing means giving credit to the original author when you use their work.
This includes:
- In-text citations within your writing.
- A reference list at the end of your work.
You must reference all sources you consult, whether you quote directly, paraphrase, or summarise ideas.
Why referencing is important
Correct referencing:
- Demonstrates your understanding of the topic.
- Strengthens your arguments by showing evidence and research.
- Allows readers to locate and verify your sources.
- Helps you avoid plagiarism and academic misconduct.
Referencing shows that you are engaging critically and responsibly with academic sources.
Referencing resources and support
RCL provides a range of resources to help you reference accurately and confidently.
1. RCL Good Referencing Guide
A step-by-step guide to Harvard referencing, covering in-text citations and reference lists.
2. RCL Good Referencing Guide Tutorial
An overview of why referencing matters and how it supports academic integrity. Watch the referencing tutorial.
3. RCL Referencing workshop PPT slides
Practical guidance on how to create in-text citations and reference lists.
4. How to use the referencing tool in Microsoft Word
A short demo video showing how to use Word’s referencing features. Using automated referencing tools is optional and not a requirement. Watch the referencing tool tutorial.
Need help?
If you want help developing your academic referencing or writing skills, you can book a one-to-one appointment with an Academic Skills tutor. Contact the team at academicskills@rcl.ac.uk, or book a one-to-one appointment.
