What is Ibid? A Comprehensive Guide for Students

Imagine working really hard on a school project, citing your sources carefully, and then coming across the puzzling word "Ibid" in your bibliography.

It can be frustrating because students may not understand why it's there and worry if they're using it the right way. It causes unnecessary stress during an already challenging academic journey.

No worries, fellow students! This blog is here to help you with the confusion of "Ibid." 

We'll explain what "Ibid" means, and tell you how to use it correctly in citations and footnotes. By the end of this blog, you will have a clear understanding of “ibid” and its rules.

So, let’s get started!

What Does Ibid Mean?

"Ibid" is actually short for the Latin word "ibidem," which translates to "in the same place." 

In the context of citations, it is used to refer to the same source that was cited in the immediately preceding reference. 

Essentially, it's a time-saving technique to avoid repeating the full citation when referencing the same source consecutively.

Example

Here's a simple ibid example to illustrate. Imagine you're writing a research paper and you've cited a book. Instead of restating the full citation for each consecutive reference in footnotes or endnotes, you can use "Ibid" to indicate that you're referring to the same source again.

• Initial Footnote Citation:

John Smith, Exploring the Universe (Place of Publication: Publisher, Year), 12.

• Consecutive Reference using Ibid:

Ibid., 45.

How to Use "Ibid" in Footnotes and Endnotes

Here's a quick guide on how to use "Ibid" effectively:

• Identify the Same Source: After citing a source in full, recognize instances where you reference the same source in subsequent footnotes or endnotes.

• Place "Ibid" Where Appropriate: Instead of repeating the entire citation, simply write "Ibid" in the subsequent footnote or endnote where you refer to the same source.

• Include Page Numbers if Needed: If the specific page you are referring to differs from the previous citation, include the page number after "Ibid" to pinpoint the exact location.

• Caution After Intervening Sources: While "Ibid" is convenient, avoid excessive use within a document. If other sources are cited between references to the same source, provide the full citation for the intervening source.

If "Ibid" is used after an intervening source, it refers to the most recent citation. Here's an example

Usage of "Ibid" in Different Citation Styles

The usage of "Ibid" citation varies across different styles. Let's explore how "Ibid" is applied in some common citation styles:

Chicago Style

In the Chicago style, "Ibid" is used to refer to the same source in consecutive footnotes. It's followed by a period and can include page numbers if necessary.

APA & MLA Style

APA and MLA styles do not use "Ibid." Instead, you provide in-text citation and the full reference for each source. 

"Ibid" is not used in in-text citations in modern academic writing, especially in styles like APA and MLA. However, in some historical or specialized contexts, you may still encounter "Ibid" used in in-text citations.

Ibid vs Short Notes

"Ibid" and "short notes" are both terms associated with referencing and citations in Chicago style, particularly in footnotes or endnotes. However, they serve different purposes.

All in all, 

This blog perfectly sums up the use of ibid for different citation styles and footnotes. Mastering "Ibid" is not just about understanding a term; it's about making your writing smoother and more professional. 

With "Ibid," you can show off your writing skills and make things easy for your readers. 

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