Citing a Source That's Already Been Cited: A How-To Guide for the Perplexed
So, you're knee-deep in a research paper, and you come across this amazing quote. You're ready to drop it like it's hot, but there's a catch: the source you found it in actually cited it from another source. Cue the existential crisis. Fear not, my fellow scholar! Citing a source within a source is like playing academic Russian roulette, but with fewer bullets and more footnotes.
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| How Do You Cite An Already Cited Source In Chicago Style |
The Dilemma of the Double Citation
Let's break it down. You've got Source A, the original juicy information. Then there's Source B, the book or article where you found this golden nugget. And finally, there's you, the desperate researcher trying to give credit where credit is due without going down a citation rabbit hole.
QuickTip: Revisit key lines for better recall.
The Golden Rule: If possible, always try to find the original source (Source A). This is like finding the Holy Grail of citations. It's the purest form of academic integrity, and it will make your professors swoon.
QuickTip: Use the post as a quick reference later.
How to Cite That Secondhand Information
But let's be real, sometimes tracking down Source A is like searching for Bigfoot. It's elusive, and you might not have the time or resources to pull it off. Fear not, there's a workaround.
QuickTip: Don’t skim too fast — depth matters.
When citing Source B, you can use the following format:
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
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- Original Author, Title of Original Work (Place of Publication: Publisher, Year), page number, quoted in Author of Source B, Title of Source B (Place of Publication: Publisher, Year), page number.
Example:
- Plato, Republic (Athens: Myself, 380 BC), 360, quoted in The Matrix (Warner Bros., 1999), 120.
Yes, The Matrix is a totally legit academic source.
The Fine Print
- Be honest: Clearly indicate that you're using a secondary source. Don't pretend you read Plato in your spare time.
- Check your style guide: Different style guides (like MLA, APA, or Chicago) have specific rules for citing secondary sources. Make sure you're following the right one.
- Use with caution: Citing secondary sources too much can weaken your argument. It's like relying on gossip instead of firsthand information.
FAQ: How-To's for the Citation-Challenged
- How to avoid citing a secondary source? Try your best to find the original source. Use libraries, online databases, and interlibrary loan to track it down.
- How to cite a website that cites a book? Treat it the same way as any other secondary source. Include the website information as Source B and the book information as Source A.
- How to cite a quote from a movie? While not ideal, you can cite a movie as a secondary source if you can't find the original text. Use the movie title as Source B and include information about the scene or dialogue.
- How to cite a secondary source in a bibliography? Generally, you only include the secondary source (Source B) in the bibliography. However, some style guides may require you to include both sources.
- How to avoid citation overload? Take breaks, use citation management software, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Your sanity will thank you.
Remember, citing correctly is important, but it doesn't have to be a headache. With a little know-how and a sense of humor, you can navigate the world of citations like a pro. Happy researching!
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