Academic writing and using sources
Academic writing is used for documentation of scientific investigations and problems. Such writing is characterised by being problem-oriented and knowledge transforming. This means that the purpose of academic writing is to produce new knowledge relevant to the particular academic community of which the scholar or student is a member. Typically, such new knowledge is based on existing knowledge in other academic texts which are based on other academic texts which are based on other academic texts, etc.
It is a kind of scientific ‘intertextuality’ where the knowledge being documented becomes part of a continuous network of knowledge communication and knowledge transformation. For this purpose, referencing ensures that the documented knowledge is based on a solid methodological foundation. And that is the reason why working with other academic texts, which we refer to as sources, is crucial in academic writing. Finally, that is why references are to be based on a formal conventionalised system so that all information can be fully checked and verified. It must be absolutely clear to the reader who says what and when.
Here is a collection of links to useful web resources about academic writing. The list also contains links to websites on good academic practice when using sources, including referencing practice and avoiding plagiarism. You will also find links to quality dictionaries and English gramar.
Relevant links on Academic English