Writing your list of sources in alphabetical or numerical order will help you keep track of different sources. Organization of sources will help you avoid the chance of accidentally citing a source incorrectly, or using the wrong source for the wrong information. Diana Hacker's "Rules for Writers" recommends constructing a working bibliography as soon as possible to help organize sources. Keep this list close by during the writing and editing process. Make sure to use it to verify that the information and sources are accurately cited.
During the writing process, it is easiest to use parenthetical citations to keep track of your sources and page numbers. If using MLA format, these citations will remain in the final version. If using another style, replace your parenthetical citations with the proper citation style. Refer to The MLA Handbook for the proper layout of parenthetical citations and bibliographies for various sources.
Footnotes provide more information than parenthetical citations and allow the reader to directly refer to the footnotes for all necessary information about a source. Refer to The Chicago Manual of Style for the proper layout of footnotes and bibliographies for various sources.
Direct quotes can add credibility to an article and can generally be cited by using parenthetical citations or footnotes. If you are using primary sources (i.e., direct interviews), make sure to properly attribute quotes. Use the source's full name on first reference, and then just the surname throughout the rest of the work. Feel free to break up the quotes to enhance readability. For most writing projects, "said" is the appropriate attribute, especially in journalism. More creative pieces allow the writer to use other attributes, such as "explained." Refer to your correlating stylebook to determine correct attribution of primary sources.
Paraphrasing requires you to rewrite an idea in your own words, with proper attribution. Just because you reword something does not make it your idea. Make sure to properly cite paraphrased information by direct attribution, parenthetical citation or footnotes.
Nothing is worse than citing an inaccurate source. Take the time to verify the credibility of a source. If looking for sources online, be precise in your search terms and make sure you can point to a direct author or publisher of the website. "Rules for Writers" encourages the researcher to maintain a critical eye for bias and reliability. It is easy to find sources, but it is much harder to determine their use for your paper. Skimming titles and content is key, "Rules for Writers" explains. Do not hesitate in finding another source if one seems less than credible.
Transitional phrases are key in citations. Segue into sourced information by including your own voice. It will present the information in an interesting way and help the reader stay connected to the various points and information presented.