If you use any information from a source, either through direct quotation or paraphrasing, you must cite the source. If you neglect to do this, you run the risk of plagiarism which is defined in QCC's Student Code of Conduct as:
"the use, by paraphrase or direct quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear acknowledgement. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials. Taking credit for work done by another person or doing work for which another person will receive credit. Copying or purchasing other’s work or arranging for others to do work under a false name."
As a general precaution, when in doubt, cite.
Matt Bejune
Coordinator of Library Reference and Instruction