How to Write a College Paper: Using Your Sources

Think about how you're going to use your sources as you read and research. Are they good for background information, is it evidence or an exhibit that you can analyze, or is it a statement that explicitly agrees or disagrees with your position? 

Consider using the ICE method: introduce, cite, explain:

1. Introduce: use an introductory word or phrase to let readers know you're going to integrate some outside source. Consider what verb is most suitable to the context of your writing/speaking.

2. Cite: include the quotation or rephasing of what you want to use from another author. Use the style that your professor has required. 

3. Explain: contextualize for your reader why this matters for your argument.

https://lsa.umich.edu/sweetland/undergraduates/writing-guides/how-do-i-incorporate-quotes-.html 

The paragraph to the right was written by Elizabeth Godwin in October of 2015. The following 3 sentences are examples of how a reader might use this paragraph in their own writing.

Common knowledge "is knowledge that is known by everyone or nearly everyone, usually with reference to the community in which the term is used... Often, common knowledge does not need to be cited."

If you find a beautifully worded phrase and you want to use it exactly, use quotations and cite. If you find a statistic that really supports your argument, cite it. If you find a smart idea that you want to put into your own words, cite it. If you want to tell everyone that George Washington was born in 1732 (even if you don't know that year off the top of your head), DON'T cite it - that's considered common knowledge. We don't need citations for fundamental concepts or knowledge, like that biology is the study of living organisms.