a reference list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reference list" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a list of sources or citations that support the content of a document or research paper. Example: "At the end of your thesis, please include a reference list to acknowledge the works you have cited."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The tool will take the form of a reference list.

Procedia Manufacturing

The chapter concludes by compiling a reference list of DRM-related standards and consortiums.

Multimedia Security Technologies for Digital Rights Management

The chapter concludes with a reference list of important literature for a deeper study.

Fracture and Fatigue of Welded Joints and Structures

Academic writing requires documentation of sources (both in-text citations and a reference list).

Yale University

She had a reference list of the standards that Ernst had negotiated with the people running the I.C.U.s, and she looked to see if they were being followed.

The New Yorker

This study creates a reference list of the neuroanatomy and the stratified anatomy for each of the 361 acupuncture points on the 14 classical channels and for 34 extra points.

Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies

To help you find out more about the many legends associated with constellations, we include a reference list of the sources that we consulted in compiling this overview, both printed and on-line.

Harvard University

In order to accurately analyze our collected data, we designed a data entry spreadsheet and created a reference list of foods and their respective food group according to guidelines established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

Cornell University

An appendix cannot include a reference list.

Springer

A preface should not contain a reference list.

Springer

Never use footnotes or endnotes instead of a reference list.

Springer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When creating a "reference list", ensure all citations are formatted consistently according to a specific style guide (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).

Common error

Avoid omitting key information (author, date, publication) in your "reference list", as this can hinder readers from locating the original sources. Always double-check your entries for accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reference list" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the direct object or complement in a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it refers to a compilation of sources used in a document.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

Academia

22%

News & Media

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reference list" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to denote a compilation of sources cited in a document. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts, especially in academic and scientific writing. The phrase serves to provide transparency, avoid plagiarism, and enhance credibility. While alternatives like "a bibliography" or "a works cited page" exist, "a reference list" remains a widely accepted term for its purpose. Remember to format your lists consistently and accurately to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bibliography

Replaces "list" with a more formal term for a compilation of sources.

a list of citations

Emphasizes the act of citing sources rather than simply providing a list.

a works cited page

Specifies the location (page) where the references are found.

a source list

Simplifies the term by focusing on the sources used.

a list of sources

More explicit, clarifies that the list contains sources.

an index of references

Highlights the indexing aspect of the listed references.

a resource compilation

Suggests a collection of resources rather than just references.

cited references

Focuses on the action of citing and the references themselves.

endnotes

Describes the list's placement at the end of a document.

footnotes

Describes the list's placement at the bottom of a page.

FAQs

How do I create "a reference list"?

To create "a reference list", compile all sources cited in your work and format them according to a chosen citation style (e.g. APA, MLA). Ensure each entry includes necessary details such as author, title, publication date, and source information.

What's the difference between "a bibliography" and "a reference list"?

"A bibliography" usually includes all works consulted, while "a reference list" only includes works directly cited in the text.

What should be included in "a reference list"?

A typical "reference list" entry includes the author's name, publication date, title of the work, and publication information (e.g. journal name, volume, page numbers, or URL).

Why is it important to have "a reference list"?

"A reference list" gives credit to original authors, avoids plagiarism, and allows readers to find the sources you used. It also enhances the credibility of your work.