What does 'citation' mean in academic writing?

In academic writing, a citation refers to a formal mention of a source that has been utilized in research. This includes providing specific details about the source, such as the author's name, title of the work, publication date, and other relevant information, which allows readers to locate the source themselves. The purpose of citations is to give credit to the original authors for their ideas, prevent plagiarism, and enable readers to verify findings or further explore the subject.

Option A accurately captures the essence of what a citation entails—acknowledging the work of others, demonstrating the research basis of your argument, and contributing to the integrity of the academic discourse. This understanding is crucial for effectively communicating in academic settings, as it underlines the importance of intellectual honesty and scholarly rigor.