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MKT 301

Business Writing and Citing: The Basics

Citations are expected in scholarly and professional work, and required when using information and data from outside sources. In business writing, citations will help you:

  • Avoid plagiarism and give credit to the ideas and work of others
  • Demonstrate credibility by backing up your claims with research and data
  • Create a path to information that supports your arguments and engage in professional dialogue
This page provides resources for business writing and common citation formats. You will need to consult with your instructor to determine the citation requirements for assignments in your courses.

Using Endnotes in Professional Reports

What are Endnotes?

Endnotes are citations made in the body of a report that lead to an expanded note at the end of the document.  Active endnote format is usually preferred in business communications and professional reports. In this format, a superscript number is used as an in-text citation, with the full reference shown in numbered notes at the end of the document.

Image showing a report that uses endnotes. Superscript numbers are shown in the body of the text after sentences that refer to outside information, and a corresponding endnote is shown at the bottom of the page with a link to the source of data.

 

How are Citations Managed Using Endnotes?

An endnote should be added each time data or information from an outside source is used in the body of a report, immediately after the information is included. Basic rules for endnotes are:

  1. Provide a complete citation in the endnote the first time a source is referenced in the text. 
  2. Add an in-text endnote every time outside information is referred to, even if it was previously cited in the report. 
  3. If the same source is cited multiple times, you may opt to use a shortened citation after the first full citation.
  4. Use a consistent format for the citations your endnotes. For example, if you chose to use APA 7 for your first endnote, you should continue using that format in each subsequent note.
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