Ensure Citation Accuracy with the Plain Language App

Meet Helena, a Research Analyst at a large consulting firm. She compiles data-driven reports for high-profile clients, drawing on multiple external sources. The Plain Language App’s “Check references” prompt helps Helena verify that each citation is thorough and accurate, preserving the firm’s trusted reputation.

The Challenge: Maintaining Accurate and Consistent References in Research Reports

Helena was tasked with preparing a comprehensive market analysis report. The document needed to:

• Verify the completeness and accuracy of all citations.
• Ensure consistency in reference formatting across various sections.
• Avoid overlooking any sources that could undermine the report’s credibility.

How the Plain Language App Keeps Research Credible

Step 1: Input Source-Rich Text

Helena accessed Microsoft Teams and clicked on "View Prompts." She then selected Check references, which pre-populated the prompt:

Check references

Helena then pasted or typed the content requiring reference verification into the prompt. Below is an example of content needing reference checking:

Here are some citations formats:
"Smith et al., 202"
"According to Johnson (2019), the market trends are..."
"Research from 2021 shows significant improvements in..."
"The study by XYZ Journal highlights key industry shifts..."
"Doe, J. (2020)" and "J. Doe, 2020" within the same section.

Step 2: Identify Gaps and Errors

Next, Helena asked:

Review the Key Changes and Corrected Citations & Perform the following:
1. Validate that each correction aligns with the context and original references in the document.
2. Implement the corrected citations in the text, ensuring consistent formatting throughout.
3. Highlight any additional issues or ambiguities that may still need resolution.

Step 3: Clarify Attribution

After initial corrections, Helena followed up:

Review the implemented citations and address the following in 3-4 lines:
1. Suggest specific sources or clarify ambiguous references (e.g., 'Research from 2021').
2. Confirm that all references are complete and verifiable within the document.

Watch the 'Check references' prompt in action:

Why This Matters

By leveraging the Plain Language App, Helena:

• Ensures the firm’s research stands up to client scrutiny.
• Demonstrates attention to detail, boosting professional credibility.
• Maintains a uniform referencing style, even when gathering data from numerous sources.

Try the Plain Language App Today!

Keep your research error-free and credible. The Plain Language App’s reference checker streamlines the citation process so you can focus on delivering top-tier insights.