Citations are a method of giving credit to others for their work while avoiding plagiarism. They are also the means through which you may participate in a professional or intellectual discussion on a certain issue. In academic writing, citations are usually required for direct quotations or paraphrases. In scientific papers, they are also required for using the work of other scientists. In journalism, citations are used to attribute quotes or other material. In technical writing, citations are used to acknowledge authors who have previously published information relevant to the current document and to provide links back to their publications. Although not necessary, it is recommended that you include page numbers for more reliable references. Technical writers should be aware of how many words are allowed in a given format by their publisher and should not write beyond this limit. Also, note that some journals require a citation even if you do not directly quote someone else's work; instead, you describe your analysis or interpretation of existing data. The purpose of including citations is to show that you have read other people's ideas and understand how they fit into your own. Including appropriate citations shows that you have done some research on your topic and will help others find additional relevant material. Without citations, your readers would have no way of knowing where you are getting your information from or why you think it is important.