Why do I need to reference my work?
Guide to referencing, paraphrasing, and citing sources properly in your written assessments
Referencing is a system used to acknowledge the sources of information you include in your assignments and written work. Failing to reference your sources properly constitutes plagiarism.
The Purpose of Referencing
Any given referencing style serves two essential purposes:
• Acknowledging the source: Giving credit to the original creators.
• Traceability: Allowing the reader to locate and verify the original source material.
When to Reference
You must provide a citation whenever you use someone else’s ideas, theories, or data. This includes when you:
• Direct quote their text
• Paraphrase their wording
• Summarise their ideas
• Use their graphic information (such as images, charts, or diagrams)
• Utilise AI tools: If you use generative AI to assist with your work, you must properly acknowledge it. Always check your unit outline or consult your lecturer to see exactly what level of AI assistance is permitted for your specific assessment.
Referencing Assistance
If you need further assistance or referencing resources, please email the Academic Success team at academicsuccess@aih.edu.au.