If there are errors in the cited references, how should they be corrected?

Errors in cited references must be corrected to maintain academic integrity and the credibility of the work. It is both feasible and essential to address such mistakes. Authors should consult the original source to verify the accuracy of the incorrect reference. Corrections must be transparently indicated, typically using footnotes, endnotes, or an erratum section explicitly stating the prior error and the accurate information. Common errors requiring correction include typos, incorrect page numbers, volume/issue details, publication years, or DOIs. Adherence to the relevant citation style guide (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) throughout the correction process is mandatory. If identifying an error after publication, authors should document the original mistake precisely and provide the fully verified, correct citation immediately adjacent. This involves consulting the reliable original source (e.g., journal article, book) for confirmation. The correction should then be clearly labeled (e.g., "Correction:" or "Erratum to Reference:") and placed where the original citation appeared or in a designated corrections section. Correcting citations prevents the propagation of misinformation, upholds scholarly standards, and ensures proper attribution, thereby preserving the research's reliability and utility for other scholars.