referencing styles

Referencing styles are standardized methods for citing sources in written work, ensuring clarity and consistency. They guide how to acknowledge books, articles, websites, and other references, including details like author names, titles, dates, and page numbers. Different fields often use specific styles, such as APA for social sciences, MLA for humanities, or Chicago for history. Proper referencing helps readers locate sources, gives credit to original authors, and avoids plagiarism. Essentially, it's a consistent system to show where information comes from and to maintain academic integrity.