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?
Broadly speaking, common knowledge refers to information that the average reader would accept as reliable without having to look it up. This includes:
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 “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.
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.