The Lighthouse

You need to provide a reference when:

• You use information (arguments, ideas, words, theories etc.) from an outside source (such as book or journal).
• You quote, i.e. use the exact words
• You paraphrase, i.e. put someone else’s ideas in your own words.

One exception is when the information you are referring to is common knowledge.

To work out whether something is common knowledge ask yourself the following:

• Is it widely known?
• Does anyone dispute it?

If it a widely known and well-established fact that no one disputes you probably don’t need to reference. However, if you are in any doubt then reference it.

Also see:

• http://owll.massey.ac.nz/main/referencing.php
• http://owll.massey.ac.nz/pdf/studyup-referencing.pdf