๐ What is a Works Cited Page?
A Works Cited page is a list of all the sources you've actually cited in your paper. If you mention it, quote it, or paraphrase it, it goes on this list. Think of it as a direct reflection of what you used to build your arguments.
๐ What is a Bibliography?
A Bibliography is a more comprehensive list. It includes all the sources you cited plus any other materials you consulted during your research, even if you didn't directly reference them in your work. It shows the breadth of your exploration.
๐ Works Cited vs. Bibliography: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature |
Works Cited |
Bibliography |
| Purpose |
Lists sources directly cited in your work. |
Lists all sources cited + consulted during research. |
| Scope |
Narrower; only includes cited sources. |
Broader; includes cited and consulted sources. |
| When to Use |
Most academic papers and research assignments. |
Larger research projects, books, or when specifically requested. |
| Content |
Mirrors in-text citations. |
May include sources not directly referenced. |
๐ก Key Takeaways
- โ
Works Cited: Think "used it, cited it."
- ๐ Bibliography: Think "looked at it, maybe used it."
- ๐ Always follow instructions: If your teacher asks for a bibliography, don't give them a works cited page, and vice versa!