Whenever you quote, paraphrase, summarize, or otherwise refer to the work of another, you are required to cite its source, either by way of parenthetical documentation or by means of a footnote.  Failing to do so constitutes a form of cheating known as plagiarism, which is a violation of the RCC Academic Honesty Policy.

Citation Styles 

Downloadable guides (RCC faculty approved versions)
      • MLA style
      • APA style

Additional help citing sources from EBSCOhost (Academic Index, MasterFile Premier, etc.)

Frequently asked questions about MLA style

Frequently asked questions about APA style

More style guides and resources

Avoiding Plagiarism

So what does plagiarism mean once you leave college? It has ruined the career of reporters at several major newspapers, damaged the credibility of several leading historians, and derailed at least one presidential campaign. Plagiarism has serious consequences in the real world. You may want to investigate the pages below for definitions and basic tutorials on plagiarism and college research.

Avoiding Plagiarism – Basic definition of plagiarism with examples from the Depauw University (IN) Writing Center. 

You will find excellent examples of acceptable paraphrases and what to avoid in the Plagiarism Information pages at Indiana University and Georgetown University.

You Quote It, You Note ItGreat animated plagiarism tutorial with sound affects, approximately 10 minutes long, developed by Vaughn Memorial Library, Acadia University (CA). 

The Plagiarism Court: You Be the Judge - A plagiarism exercise, in flash and html versions, from Fairfield University (CT). At the end of the exercise, have your score emailed to yourself!

Is it Plagiarism Yet? - From The Owl at Perdue University.