Davis (2011) points out some things one should observe when checking their writing for appropriate use of paraphrasing and quotations. According to Davis (2011), one should identify if every quote used in the text is used well. If there are any words added or removed, one should note this by placing the added words in square brackets and placing ellipsis in square brackets to show an incomplete quote. Also, Davis (2011) points out that it is important to check if the words in a paraphrased sentence are their own. Also, one should check that they communicate the message in the original text.
When using style manuals, Davis (2011) advises that one considers the nature of their discipline. If one has chosen to specialize in the sciences, they should always consider the most recent journal articles and textbooks. However, for those specializing in the humanities and social sciences, the use of sources may not be restricted to the most recent. In general, Davis (2011) recommends that one learns the style manuals of their respective fields once they choose to specialize in them.
Davis (2011) finds that the writer is presented with several challenges about how to select and cite internet and electronic sources. The task of looking for sources online might be fun, but it is not that efficient. Therefore, when one is looking to use internet sources, Davis (2011) recommends that one consider various factors. One of them is the website from which the information is being obtained. The best websites for scholarly work are government websites, non-profits, international organizations, websites, conferences, and forums. Davis (2011) notes that one should identify if the website falls under any of the aforementioned categories by looking at the URL’s starting initials. In the appendix, Davis (2011) provides a list of common resources in various disciplines that can help one learn the rules of writing and citing sources.