How many citations should I have in my reference list?
Answer
There isn't a magic number for how many citations you should include in your reference list. It depends on your subject area, the type of work you're doing, the requirements set out in your assignment brief, and the expectations of your lecturer.
If you're not sure, we recommend:
- Consulting your assignment brief and course handbook. Have you been asked to use a particular type of source, or to find information in a particular way? Have you been told to obtain a specific number of sources?
- Reviewing feedback from previous assignments. What comments have you received about the number and type of sources you've used in the past?
If you're still not sure, take a look at this guide. It will help you to:
- Identify gaps in existing information
- Resolve information gaps
- Decide when to stop searching