How to Reference What Someone Said: A Comprehensive Guide
When incorporating statements made by individuals into your academic work, it is imperative to properly reference and attribute the original source of the information. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of referencing practices for citing what someone said in both written and spoken contexts.
Citing Sources Quoted in Another Source
In scholarly writing, such as research papers or articles, it is common to encounter information that has been quoted or referenced from a work you have not directly read. In such cases, it is essential to acknowledge both the original source of the information and the work in which it appears.
To cite sources quoted in another source, follow these guidelines:
- Include the name, date, and page reference of the work where the information originated.
- Use the term “cited” to indicate that the information is being referenced from another work.
- Provide the name of the work in which the information was found.
For example:
Neville (1990 cited Wilson 1998, p.89) devised the standard criteria for food tasting surveys.
When referencing this information, only the work you have read should appear in the reference list at the end of your work.
Furthermore, if you encounter criticism or commentary on the quoted source within another work, it is important to attribute both the original source and the critique. For instance:
Although the results of the Bristol Sausage Survey have been described by one scholar as ‘seriously misleading’ (Brown 1990, p.65 cited Jones 2004, p.87), they have had a great influence on the marketing strategy of industry leaders.
Citing Unwritten Sources Quoted in Another Source
When referring to spoken words of an individual that are recorded in a text, it is necessary to cite the name of the person, the name of the author, the date, and the page reference of the work in which the quote or reference appears.
For example:
In a recent interview (Jones 2004, p.77), Henry Howard said that the British Sausage industry has suffered from decades of underinvestment in research and development.
As Henry Howard said in an interview with Jones (2004, p70), ‘British sausages are widely regarded as the best in the world’.
Reliability of Information
Ensuring the reliability of the information you reference is crucial in academic work. Here are some guidelines to help you assess the credibility and accuracy of the sources:
- Verify the credibility of the source by checking the reputation of the author, publication, or organization.
- Use cross-referencing with other reliable sources to confirm the accuracy and consistency of the information.
- Utilize reputable sources on the internet, such as academic journals, reputable news outlets, or government websites, for fact-checking purposes.
- Exercise caution when relying solely on anecdotal or unverified sources, as they may not provide accurate or trustworthy information.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure the reliability and integrity of the information you incorporate into your academic work.
Sources
- Bristol University. “Citing sources quoted in another source.” Available at: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/arts/exercises/referencing/page_29.htm
- Bucks County Community College. “Citing Sources in an Oral Presentation.” Available at: https://www.bucks.edu/academics/department/lang-lit/conference/citing/
- Academia Stack Exchange. “How to reference data someone told me in person?” Available at: https://academia.stackexchange.com/questions/99479/how-to-reference-data-someone-told-me-in-person
FAQs
How to Reference What Someone Said: A Comprehensive Guide
Why is it important to reference what someone said in academic work?
Referencing what someone said in academic work is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it allows readers to trace the original source of the information and verify its accuracy. Secondly, it demonstrates academic integrity by giving credit to the original author or speaker. Additionally, proper referencing helps to avoid plagiarism and showcases the depth of research conducted.
How do I cite sources quoted in another source?
To cite sources quoted in another source, provide the name, date, and page reference of the work where the information originated. Use the term “cited” to indicate that the information is being referenced from another work. Finally, include the name of the work in which the information was found. Remember to only list the work you have read in the reference list.
How do I cite spoken words of someone recorded in a text?
When referencing spoken words of someone recorded in a text, cite the name of the person, the name of the author, the date, and the page reference of the work where the quote or reference appears. This allows readers to locate the original source and verify the accuracy of the statement.
What if I can’t access the original source quoted in another source?
If you are unable to access the original source quoted in another source, it is best to avoid referencing it. It is important to rely on information that you can verify and access directly. However, if the quoted source is widely known and cited by multiple reputable sources, you can mention it in your work but clearly indicate that you were unable to access the original source.
Can I paraphrase what someone said instead of using a direct quote?
Yes, you can paraphrase what someone said instead of using a direct quote. When paraphrasing, you restate the information in your own words while still acknowledging the original source. It is important to provide an accurate representation of the original statement and include an in-text citation or reference to the source.
How do I assess the reliability of the information someone said?
Assessing the reliability of the information someone said requires critical evaluation. Consider the credibility of the source, such as the expertise and reputation of the speaker. Additionally, cross-reference the information with other reliable sources to ensure its accuracy and consistency. It is also advisable to use reputable sources, such as academic journals or reputable news outlets, to fact-check the information.
What if the information someone said is disputed or controversial?
If the information someone said is disputed or controversial, it is essential to provide a balanced perspective in your work. Present different viewpoints or conflicting evidence, and clearly indicate the controversy surrounding the statement. Additionally, support your arguments with evidence from multiple reputable sources to ensure a well-rounded analysis.
Can I use personal interviews as a source for referencing what someone said?
Yes, personal interviews can be used as a source for referencing what someone said. When referencing a personal interview, include the name of the person, the date of the interview, and relevant information about the interview (e.g., location or context). It is important to obtain permission from the interviewee before using their statements and to follow ethical guidelines regarding confidentiality and anonymity, if applicable.