academic writing how many references

See The Learning Centre guides to various citation styles
All academic essays MUST contain references. Referencing guards against plagiarism, a serious academic offence. Plagiarism is copying someone else’s words or ideas and presenting them as your own.

Research involves using other people’s ideas and work to develop your own conclusions. You must acknowledge all of the sources you have used.
When you have an accurate reference:

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References:

http://libguides.usc.edu.au/c.php?g=508267&p=3480195
http://libanswers.library.cqu.edu.au/faq/170178
http://www1.chester.ac.uk/academic-quality-support-services/student-affairs/academic-integrity