A reference list or a bibliography is an organised list of the sources and literature used on your assignment.
The purpose of the list is to give the reader easy access to your sources and allow them to critically test your arguments.
is a complete list of the sources used.
is arranged alphabetically by author surname. On some programmes/courses, the reference list is divided into primary and secondary literature.
can be organised in different systems of referencing. Ask your teacher which system he or she prefers. Read more about different reference management tools.
should appear after the main text and before any appendices.
is compulsory in university assignments.
Read more in the entry on references, where you can also see specific examples of how to refer to the sources in your list of references. Visit the references page.
In some cases, it can be appropriate to divide your list of references into primary literature and secondary literature. Read more about primary and secondary literature.
The information about formalities is written in collaboration between Center for Educational Development (CED) and AU Library and is general guidelines for formal requirements. They do not replace the provisions in your academic regulations, your lecturers' guidance or information on your course's website. If in doubt ask your supervisor.
Reference management tools can help you organise your references and make it easier to use them in your text document. Students and staff at AU can download the Endnote reference management program free of charge.
There is a range of guidelines describing the APA referencing style with regard to text references, citations and the bibliography in written assignments. For example, use the Curtin University guide, the guide developed by University College Absalon (in Danish), or Kildekompasset (in Norwegian).
