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Here's a definition of citing work using a metaphor: Citing sources is like giving credit in the closing credits of a movie. Just as filmmakers acknowledge everyone who contributed to creating the film - from actors to cinematographers to costume designers - academic writers must acknowledge everyone whose ideas, research, or words contributed to their work. The credits don't diminish the director's vision; instead, they show the collaborative nature of knowledge-building and give proper recognition to all the creative minds involved. Another way to think about it: Citations are like a GPS trail for ideas. They show readers exactly where each piece of information came from, creating a roadmap that others can follow to verify facts, explore topics deeper, or build upon existing knowledge. Without this trail, readers would be lost in a wilderness of unsupported claims, unable to distinguish between the author's original thoughts and borrowed wisdom. Or consider this: Citing sources is like acknowledging your teachers in a graduation speech. You're not diminishing your own achievements by recognizing those who helped you learn and grow - you're showing intellectual humility and gratitude while demonstrating the foundation upon which your own ideas stand. See more