Research in regards to MLA citation has always seemed easier from the lack of strictness and extra steps in the citing process. APA is more factual in nature from the necessity of accuracy in science related fields. APA is worked into students academic progression after MLA because it is more advanced and involved with more lengthy papers. APA style typically requires more sources be implemented into an essay. I did not enjoy assignments in APA formats, but the paper was more organized and structurally sound. There is less free writing in APA style because of the need for accreditation of ideas.

The main idea of the video explained that ideas have to be accredited to the original author to avoid plagiarism. The key is to distinguish the idea of the source and the branching off of the ideas that elaborate more original information from another source. It is imperative to not work in a careless manner in order to avoid plagiarism. Signal phrases were elaborated in the ECU video. The signal phrases identifies the following information is cited for a source. It is a sort of transition to give credit for credible information. If something is general knowledge it is usually obvious to the writer and the reader as well. There is usually no need for debate on common knowledge in essays. Specific knowledge may be paraphrased incorrectly or overlooked in the writing which can lead to plagiarism. With careful attention to the writing steps plagiarism can be avoided entirely.