Citing literature

Abstract

Publishing the results of research is the final outcome of a research paper - what has not been published is considered not to have existed. The aim of publishing research is to promote an original idea or to improve existing ideas, with the use of reliable sources. When writing different types of publications (research and professional papers, doctoral theses, books, etc.) it is necessary to state the sources that the ideas or text related to that publication were taken from. Science did not start with the authors of any individual research paper nor will it end with them - whatever the topic of the research is, there is a high probability that someone has already written something about it. If other authors' ideas or text are used in one's research, this must be stated in the text of that research. The standardized method of referring to sources is citing. Sources are cited in three ways: by quoting, paraphrasing, and summarizing. Citing sources may be direct and indirect. Sources may be referred to in the text (citing), at the end of the page (footnote), or at the end of the paper (endnote). Different sources may be cited: books, scientific journals, pictures, videos, audio sources, etc. The basic citation unit is a reference. Software for reference management enables the authors of publications to gather and organize references, insert quotes into the text, and create a bibliography. There are many such different programs. Some can be used free of charge (Mendeley, Zotero), while others must be purchased (EndNote). With the development of Internet technology, this type of software is also developing new functions in order to facilitate cooperation and networking amongst researchers, as well as to assist in the development of academic social networks. Accurate citing ensures the integrity of existing scientific knowledge that is being presented, it contributes to the reputation of a scientific journal and strengthens the credibility of the author and the research itself.