"Works Cited" is a section at the end of a research paper or essay that lists all the sources referenced throughout the work. This section provides essential information about each source, such as the author's name, title of the work, publication date, and publisher. It allows readers to locate the original materials for further study and gives credit to the original authors. In academic writing, proper citation is crucial to avoid plagiarism and to support the credibility of the work. Different citation styles, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, have specific formats for how to present the "Works Cited" list. Following these guidelines ensures consistency and clarity in scholarly communication.