Ibid: The Latin Word That's Losing Its Cool
So, you're knee-deep in a research paper, and you're staring at this weird-looking word, ibid. It looks like someone sneezed on a keyboard, right? Well, fear not, my fellow scholar, for I am here to shed some light on this Latin relic.
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| Is Ibid Used In Chicago Style |
Ibid: A Brief History
Ibid is short for ibidem, which means "in the same place" in Latin. It was originally used to indicate that you were citing the same source as the previous footnote. Imagine it as a lazy student's shortcut to avoid writing out the whole citation again.
QuickTip: Look for contrasts — they reveal insights.
The Chicago Manual of Style: A Stickler for Details
Now, the Chicago Manual of Style, that grand old tome of academic rules, has decided that ibid is, well, a bit pass�. They've replaced it with something they call "shortened citations". Basically, it's the same idea, but without the fancy Latin.
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
Why the change? Well, according to the Chicago Manual, shortened citations are clearer and more consistent. It's like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone. Sure, the flip phone was cool in its day, but now it's just outdated.
QuickTip: Pause to connect ideas in your mind.
So, Can You Still Use Ibid?
Technically, yes, you can still use ibid if you're following the older editions of the Chicago Manual. But if you're aiming for a modern, sleek paper, it's best to stick with the shortened citation format.
Tip: Don’t skim past key examples.
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Remember: Your professor might have a preference, so it's always good to double-check their requirements.
Ibid: A Dying Breed?
While ibid might be on its way out, it's still a fun word to know. You can impress your friends with your Latin knowledge or use it to annoy your professor (just kidding!).
In conclusion, ibid is a fascinating piece of academic history, but it's no longer the preferred method for citing sources in Chicago style. So, embrace the future and use those shortened citations!
How to...
- How to use shortened citations in Chicago style: Instead of ibid, use the author's last name, a shortened title, and the page number.
- How to decide which citation style to use: Check your assignment guidelines or ask your professor.
- How to avoid citation errors: Use a citation manager or style guide to help you format your citations correctly.
- How to deal with a citation-obsessed professor: Smile, nod, and do as they say.
- How to survive grad school: Coffee, lots of coffee.
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