Identify the source type
Gather all required source details
Follow the required citation style
Format the in-text citation correctly
Format the reference list or works cited entry correctly
Use quotation marks for direct quotes
Include page numbers when required
Cite paraphrased information
Match every in-text citation to a full reference entry
Check punctuation, capitalization, and italics
Verify the citation against the style guide
Use a citation generator only as a check, not a final authority