The purpose of citing sources and making a reference list is to note whom and what you are citing, to make it easier for the reader to access the cited material. This is mainly done so that the reader may be able to verify a statement in a text.

There are various citing styles. You will most likely come across the Harvard and the Oxford system. Check with your department regarding what citing style is preferred within your subject.

Within the medical and biomedical field the Vancouver style is usually preferred. Vancouver style (Monash University Library)