When citing statistical information, how should the source be indicated?

When citing statistical information, the source must be clearly indicated to establish credibility, prevent plagiarism, and enable verification. This involves attributing the specific data point and providing complete reference details. Accurate source indication requires identifying the originator (author/agency) and publication year near the statistical claim. The full reference must appear in the reference list, including author(s), publication date, title, source (e.g., journal, report, website), and publisher or DOI/URL for retrievability. Include the specific location of the statistic within the source (e.g., page number, table number, figure number). Always use quotation marks and cite page numbers for verbatim material. Adhere strictly to the specific citation style guide (e.g., APA, Chicago, MLA) mandated by the publisher or discipline, ensuring consistency throughout the work. Proper attribution upholds academic integrity, provides essential context for the statistic, such as its date and methodology, and allows readers to evaluate its reliability and original purpose. This practice establishes the author's credibility by demonstrating rigorous evidence use, facilitates deeper exploration for readers, and serves as a vital foundation for scholarly discourse and responsible knowledge building. Precise citations enable replication of analyses and verification of claims, a cornerstone of scientific progress.