What is the primary purpose of citation in academic writing?

The primary purpose of citation in academic writing is to credit original sources and avoid plagiarism. By providing citations, writers acknowledge the contributions of other scholars and give credit to the authors whose work has influenced their own research. This practice not only shows respect for intellectual property but also allows readers to trace the origins of ideas, verify information, and further explore the topic by consulting the original sources. Accurate citation underscores the integrity of the work and fosters a scholarly dialogue within the academic community.