As someone with a science degree, I’m fascinated with research.
And I can’t resist statistics. I love them.
They validate my assumptions and provide me additional information for making better decisions in my clients’ projects and my work.
When I worked in higher education, our web services team used data to help drive our decisions.
We reviewed analytics regularly to:
- Inform design of the college website
- Create a new class schedule
- Improve user experience
- Resolve design issues
- Better understand campaign performance
That’s why I get so frustrated when someone publishes a post, adds statistics, but doesn’t include the citation to the research study for the statistics.
What value is there when someone includes “Studies have proven that 55% of adults aged 18-25…” or “a recent study showed 28% increase in click-through rate (CTR)” in their, post without providing the source?
I have so many questions.
- What study?
- Who conducted the study?
- How many people participated in it?
- Is it from a trusted source?
Without the information about the study, what conclusions do you expect your readers to form?
How should they apply that information?
Cite Your Sources
You want to maintain a good relationship with your readers by providing quality information.
By citing a source, you increase the trust and credibility your readers have in your blog posts.
You also recognize and acknowledge the work of others, the authors and researchers, who contributed to your understanding of the topic.
You show you’ve spent the time researching and understanding the topic so you can share your insights with your readers.
When you include a citation and link to the study, you provide the opportunity for your readers to learn more about the topic.
Are you frustrated when blog posts include statistics, but don’t reference the source? Share your thoughts in the comments.
