If you are a student, researcher, or a writer, the accurate citation of sources is crucial, and Google Docs provides an easy way to create and manage them. Our step-by-step guide will take you through the process and help you get it right.
Creating a Citation Source
To create a citation source, go to Tools > Citations. Choose MLA, APA, or Chicago style-guide from the dropdown menu, and click the “Add citation/source” button. Select a source type like a book or website and enter the recommended information in the provided fields. Finally, click “Add Citation Source,” and it will be saved in the sidebar.
Editing a Citation Source
To edit a citation source, click on the three dots next to it, and select “Edit.” You can then make the necessary changes and update the citation accordingly.
Adding an In-Text Quote
To add a citation within your text, select the source from the sidebar and click “Cite.” The citation will appear at your cursor’s location, which you can modify according to your needs.
Creating a Bibliography
To add a bibliography to your document, select “Insert Bibliography” from the sidebar and place the cursor where you want it to appear. Google Docs will automatically generate it based on the sources you’ve cited in your text. Note that changes made to the bibliography after insertion are not automatically updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What citation styles are supported on Google Docs?
Google Docs supports the commonly-used citation styles for academic writing, including MLA, APA, and Chicago.
2. Can I customize my citations and bibliography?
Yes. You can choose “Custom” from the citation style drop-down menu and modify the citation template to fit your needs.
3. How can I remove a citation source?
Click on the three dots next to the source and select “Delete” to remove a citation source.
4. Can I add footnotes to my document?
Yes. You can add footnotes by going to Insert > Footnote. Google Docs will format the footnote, and you can customize it to suit your needs.
Final Thoughts
Keeping track of bibliographies and citations could be challenging, but Google Docs offers a helpful solution. By following our guide, you can write with confidence and ensure that your sources are accurately cited. Advantages such as customization of style and ease of usage have made Google Docs more popular and an essential tool for academic and professional writing.
