Common Knowledge
You may have heard that you do not have to cite your sources if it is common knowledge. But what does it mean to consider something common knowledge?
Common Knowledge Criteria
Broadly speaking, common knowledge refers to information that the average reader would accept as reliable without having to look it up. This includes:
- Information most people would know such as water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Knowledge shared by members of a field such as anthropologists knowing the works of famous anthropologist Margaret Mead.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- Who is your audience? If your audience is general, they may not consider a fact about the Big Bang Model common knowledge like a scientist would.
- Is the claim an opinion or interpretation? Opinions or interpretations must be cited. For example, if you state that Neville Chamberlain did not have to agree to the Munich Pact, you would need to cite a source because this is an interpretation of history and not an established fact.
Common Knowledge Examples
- Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States of America.
- Beyonce Knowles was a member of Destiny's Child.
- Planet Earth revolves around the sun.
When in doubt...
Cite your sources! If you aren't sure if something is common knowledge, err on the side of caution and cite a source to support the claim.
Is This Common Knowledge?
Is “Big Blue is the mascot of Utah State University” an example of common knowledge?
Yes
Correct! Big Blue as the USU Mascot is common knowledge and therefore not something you would have to cite.
No
Big Blue as USU's Mascot is common knowledge and not something you would need to cite to support this claim.
What About This?
Is “The Utah State University main campus is approximately 400 acres, with a statewide acreage of 7,000” an example of common knowledge?
Yes
This is not an example of common knowledge.
No
Correct! This is not an example of common knowledge.