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Reference lists

The reference list is usually placed on a new page at the end of your assignment. In a large book you may see a reference list at the end of each chapter. Each in-text citation must have a matching entry in your reference list.

There are two kinds of reference lists. One is named Bibliography, the other is named References.

A Bibliography:

  • lists every source used for background reading AND
  • lists every source used in the assignment.

A References list: 

  • lists every source that you have used in the assignment.

This is the reference list most commonly asked for. Check with your lecturer for the type of reference list required.

Generally, when creating a reference list:

  • Use a separate page at the end of the assignment.
  • Use the heading 'References'.
  • Each citation listed must be a full end-text citation formatted in the Harvard style.
  • Each citation should start on a new line.
  • Leave a line gap between each citation to make them easier to read.
  • List your citations in alphabetical order. If the first word is an 'a', 'an', or 'the' alphabetise according to the second word.
  • Do not group your citations according to format.

This is an example of a typical reference list:

References

Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency 2012, Think change, accessed 20 July 2012, <http://www.climatechange.gov.au>.

The Green Patriot Working Group 2008, 50 simple steps to save the earth from global warming, Freedom Press, Los Angeles.

Ha, T 2008, The Australian green consumer guide: choosing products for a healthier planet, home and bank balance, University of New South Wales Press, Sydney.

James, I 2012, 'Main oil refinery explodes killing 39', The Advertiser, 27 August 2012.

Steinfeld, H, Gerber, P, Wassenaar, T, Castel, V, Rosales, M & deHaan, C 2006, Livestock's long shadow: environmental issues and options, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, viewed 20 February 2012, <www.fao.org/docrep/010/a0701e/a0701e00.htm>.