Endeavour APA Referencing Guide: APA Referencing Guide

APA referencing was first developed in 1929 by the American Psychological Association (APA) to create uniformity in the presentation of scientific articles (APA, 2023). Since then, the referencing style has evolved through seven revisions, hence why the current referencing style is termed 'APA 7'. The most recent revision aims to help "writers present their ideas in a clear, precise, and inclusive manner" (APA, 2023, para. 1). Endeavour College has adopted the American Psychological Association (APA) style, 7th edition, as its referencing style (APA 7). All assignments and works created by Endeavour students must adhere to APA 7 guidelines, unless otherwise directed by a subject administrator.

Why reference?

1. Acknowledges your sources.

2. Allows quick retrieval of information.

3. Omits the risk of plagiarism.

Plagiarism is the accidental or purposeful copying of another person’s work and submitting it as your own.

Proper referencing must be included when you cite the ideas or information from a source (book, journal article, website etc). Even if you are citing the same source more than once, you must reference at each point a new idea or information is introduced in your assignment.

To avoid plagiarism, reference whenever you:

1. Use direct quotes.

2. Include facts or opinions that may be challenged.

3. Paraphrase.

4. Cite statistics (images, graphs, tables).

When you are writing assignments it is important to draw evidence from many sources.

For more information on the appropriate level of citation, please visit the APA Style website (APA, 2022a). Information regarding word count, and what is included in word counts, can be found in your assignment outlines.

“For most papers, cite one or two of the most representative sources for each key point.” (APA, 2022a, para 1).