In an age where data are abundant and readily accessible, citing sources enhances the credibility of research and writing, strengthens one's argument, and supports scientific integrity by promoting transparency and reproducibility.

When you use and consistently cite U.S. Census Bureau data in your work, it enhances its credibility because it lets readers know your data come from a trusted and reliable source. In addition, consistent citations help the Census Bureau measure the quality and impact of work that uses Census Bureau data. It also helps communicate the value of the data for research. In turn, this can lead to creation of new statistics and research and inform funding decisions for the federal statistical system.

The Census Bureau recently released new guidance on how to cite its statistical products, technical documentation and research through the citation of publications, data, code and tools. This blog provides a brief overview of the guidance and shares a new data.census.gov feature designed to make citing Census Bureau data even easier.

To make it easy to cite your sources from data.census.gov, we’ve added a citation button that automatically generates a citation for the displayed table. Citations are available in popular styles like MLA, APA, Chicago, and Harvard. A citation is also provided when a table is downloaded from data.census.gov as an Excel file.

To access this button when viewing a table:

• Click on “More Tools” above the table.
• Click “Cite.”
• Select your preferred citation format.
• Click “Copy” and paste the citation in your work.

For the Census Bureau, proper citations allow us to better understand the reach and impact of our statistical products and published research.

For you and your readers, citing sources enhances the credibility of your work while supporting scientific integrity.

• Credibility. Citing your sources provides a trail for readers to connect your research back to the original underlying data. This added transparency enhances your credibility as a researcher or writer. Readers are more likely to trust your conclusions if they can verify the data themselves. By citing reputable sources like the Census Bureau, you bolster your argument and demonstrate your work is grounded in established research.
• Accuracy. Citing your sources helps ensure that readers can verify your work.
• Engagement. Citing your sources allows readers to delve deeper into the topic and explore the sources you've used, making your writing more engaging.

By adhering to the principles of proper citation, the credibility of the work is enhanced and contributes to a culture of integrity and collaboration in research. Whether a student, seasoned researcher, journalist or casual writer, embracing the practice of citing data and information sources is essential for fostering trust and respect in the academic community and beyond.