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LIFE102 - Attributes of Living Systems
Council of Science Editors (CSE) Citation Style
The Council of Science Editors (CSE) citation style is popular in the life sciences. The name-year system of this citation style is used for assignments in LIFE102.
Your Lab Manual
The Laboratory Manual for LIFE102 has brief examples of CSE citations as well as details on the expectations for your assignments. Consult your lab manual first.
Online CSE Citation Help
- Scientific Style and Format Citation Quick GuideExamples of the most frequently cited source types, from the makers of the official CSE manual.
- Citation Guide: Council of Science Editors (Name/Year System)Clearly written guidance on using CSE style, provided by Writing@CSU.
- Council of Science Editors (CSE) Style GuideExamples of the CSE citation style from the University of Wisconsin-Madison writing center.
Official CSE Style Manual
- Scientific Style and Format by Council of Science EditorsPublication Date: 2014Use for in-depth questions.
In print at Morgan Library.
Online Citation Generators
- Citation Builder - NCSU LibrariesChoose "CSE/CBE (author-date)" as the citation style and be sure to check the resulting citation before you use it!
Evaluating Sources
Only you can decide whether an information source is appropriate to use for a particular purpose. However, there are a number of factors to consider when you assess an information source. One way to remember them is called the CRAAP test.
Does your source pass the CRAAP test?
- Currency
- Relevance
- Authority
- Accuracy
- Purpose
See this handout from the Meriam Library at California State University Chico for more information.
Using Sources
The Writer's Handbook shows "how to properly integrate information from published sources into your own writing" with brief explanations and examples, linked below. From the UW-Madison Writing Center.
You MUST paraphrase sources (not quote them) for your LIFE102 assignments.
Writing Help
- CSU Writing CenterThe CSU Writing Center provides help to members of the CSU community during any phase of writing. In person or online services are available, and drop-ins are welcome.
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