Referencing is when you acknowledge that the idea used in your work was originally inspired by another person. By referencing your sources you are indicating to your lecturer that you have read widely, considered different perspectives and have put forward a well reasoned argument that is founded in knowledge from literature.

Check out the video below to support you with using Cite Them Right Online when referencing at university. 

When logging in to Cite Them Right when away from campus you may be asked to enter your full university email and password to log in via your institution.

Remember that in the Harvard referencing style you can use et al. in your in text citation if there are four or more authors who have written the source. You would still need to keep the full referencing information for each author to use in the reference list, at the end of your assignment.

The format of your references will vary depending on the source you are referencing and the referencing style used. For example, in Harvard Referencing, using Cite Them Right Online a book reference would involve looking at the title, year it was published, publisher, and the edition if it is not the first edition and displaying the information in the correct format. 

However, if you were referencing an Act of Parliament in Harvard style you may look at a chapter in a book or web page. It is important to look at the appropriate web page on Cite them Right Online to correctly reference the source.

If you are at all unsure, ask questions on the Study Skills Drop in on the Library website each weekday at the times stated on the website. 

Test yourself: What type of source is being referenced in Harvard style in the example below?

When referencing it is important to format your references in the correct format for the source. Sources that you may use in your assignment include books, academic journals and trusted websites. 

Check out the video below for some key information about referencing formats in the Harvard Style. 

Cite Them Right Online (ND) Cite them right online. Available at: https://www-citethemrightonline-com.sunderland.idm.oclc.org/homeLinks to an external site. (Accessed: 31 July 2023). 

Cottrell, S. (2017) Critical thinking skills: effective analysis and reflection. 3rd edn. Palgrave.