Why is it important for an informative speaker to cite sources during the speech?

Question

Accepted Answer

To enhance credibility and allow the audience to verify the information. Citing sources during an informative speech enhances the speaker's credibility and allows the audience to verify the information if they choose to do so. Oral citations demonstrate that the speaker has done their research, that the information comes from reliable sources, and that the speaker respects the audience's right to know where the information originates. This practice builds trust between the speaker and the audience.

Filling time during the presentation mischaracterizes source citations as padding rather than a substantive element of ethical speaking. Impressing the audience with the amount of research focuses on the speaker's image rather than the audience's needs; the purpose of citing sources is informational and ethical, not performative. Avoiding having to explain complex information suggests that citations replace explanation, which they do not; speakers must still interpret and explain their sources for the audience.

Oral citation is an important skill tested on the DSST exam. Students should know how to cite sources verbally during a speech by mentioning the author, their qualifications, the publication or source, and the date when relevant. Effective oral citations are smooth and natural, not awkward interruptions to the speech's flow.

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