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The Harvard format is a common writing style used for scientific and technical writing. Like many other writing styles, HRS allows its writer to give credit to the sources in which they obtain their information. The use of Harvard references prevents plagiarism, accusations of plagiarism towards a writer, and brings credibility to the work of the writer.
The parenthetical citations allow writers to reference their source of information within the text of their work. Those citations are then compiled in a list of references located at the end of the document called the reference list.
The Harvard format, also known as the Harvard Referencing System (HRS), is a common writing style used in science and technical writing. Papers following the Harvard format must follow both citation and referencing guidelines.
Harvard Format example, Harvard reference list
The format includes parenthetical citations within the content of the work. This allows for writers to give credit to the original source from which the information was obtained. The parenthetical citation is often composed of the author’s name, year of publication, and page numbers of the source. Every document that uses the Harvard format contains these parenthetical citations.
Every paper that is written in the Harvard format must include a references page that is a collection of all the parenthetical citations in the work. The purpose of the reference list is to provide greater detail for each and every citation in the paper. The detailed information in the reference list allows readers to access the original source of information for themselves. The references list begins on a separate page from the essay and coordinates with every Harvard citation used throughout the text.
The type of source that is used, whether it is a book, journal article, or electronic source, determines how the citations and references are presented. In order to follow the Harvard format correctly, be sure to refer to the official Harvard Reference System guidelines.