So, in a personal statement when you are explaining research (I am describing the theory and studies that influence my thesis) - is it appropriate to cite authors APA style???

And if so, does that mean there should be a "reference page" to this personal statement?

Thanks for any advice on this matter.

10/25/2008 2:05:53 PM

my natural inclination is to say that one doesn't need to cite a personal statement

[Edited on October 25, 2008 at 2:17 PM. Reason : but if i did, i'd probably use harvard citations]

10/25/2008 2:15:34 PM

no, i'm not citing a personal statement. I'm citing research within the personal statement. my question is, do I need to use citation. for example:

My name is Fred, I'm applying to your PhD program for X. I am currently working on my thesis. This thesis is based on ___ theory, *(author, year)*.

see what I'm saying?? My question is do I need to put the part within the * * in the personal statement??

10/25/2008 2:27:55 PM

come on folks, tww is influencing my future.




okay, so i know i can ask my mentor about this on monday but i really wanted to send these out, ASAP.

10/25/2008 3:36:02 PM

I've seen people do this with the citations numbered when mentioned and then the information at the end of the personal statement.

10/25/2008 7:32:14 PM

Quote :

"no, i'm not citing a personal statement. I'm citing research within the personal statement"

yeah, i realize this, but it seems to be contrary to the whole idea of a personal statement to use outside references; it's not a research paper

10/25/2008 8:52:12 PM

I would say that references are acceptable and if you use them, use the citation format standard to your field. Just remember that a personal statement should describe your interests, skills, and goals. It's shouldn't be a mini research paper or a literature review.

10/25/2008 10:56:23 PM

thanks guys!

10/26/2008 4:19:41 PM