Sources of information

by Aaron Heath
19th July 2012

Do writers need to acknowledge sources of research?

I am writing a short story, part of the action takes place in Ancient Egypt. I am going to do some research to ensure historical and factual accuracy. I am only going to be researching facts that I need to know in order to be able to create an accurate setting. I won't be quoting or using another person's words in my story, just using any historical details that I find. Do I need to put some kind of acknowledgement section at the end of my story citing sources of information?

Replies

Many HF authors put an 'Historical Note' at the end of the book though it seems to me few quote sources. And any work of fiction will usually have a disclaimer at the beginning so 'facts' used cannot be construed as such (even though they might be real).

I've noticed a few authors quoting sources on their websites, so that might be an alternative.

For a one-off, like Victoria says there's no real need :)

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Jonathan
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Jonathan Hopkins
19/07/2012

Other than actual quotes, sources are only recognised in non-fiction. Although, if you keep track of where you obtained information it might be interesting for an interviewer should the story win a prize. I went to see the prize-giving of the Rhys Davies Award a few years ago and the winner explained her inspiration and research as part of the Bay Lit Festival here in Cardiff.

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Victoria
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Victoria Whithear
19/07/2012