Conducting the MBA assignment for IGNOU already requires lots of effort. Topic selection, data collection, analysis formatting and viva preparation are enough to keep students busy for several months. It is then time to tackle the reference part. This is where a lot of students feel confused, not due to the difficulty, but because nobody explains it in a clear manner.
The majority of IGNOU MBA students fail not due to poor research, but rather due to mistakes or careless references. Examiners notice references immediately. They examine whether the sources are authentic, properly cited, and formatted to a consistent standard. A weak reference section will raise doubts about the authenticity of whole project.
This guide will show you how to reference an IGNOU MBA project in a easy and straightforward manner, free of academic jargon.
Why reference matters in IGNOU MBA project? IGNOU MBA project
References show that your job is based upon actual research, not your own imagination. They show that you have looked up books, journals and reports, and trustworthy online sources.
ignou mba project service (a cool way to improve) expects MBA students to show
understanding of current research
Skills to connect the theory and practice
Understanding of authentic sources
If references are not present or poorly written, a project appears unfinished or copied. Even good content suffers because references reflect seriousness.
Reference section vs Bibliography
Many students refer to these terms interchangeably. However, they are not exactly identical.
References are only those sources that are cited in the project's chapters.
Bibliography can include additional information to help learn more about the subject, but was not specifically cited.
For IGNOU MBA project, it's better to create the section on references. section and ensure every referenced source is used in the content.
Which referencing style should you employ for IGNOU MBA
IGNOU generally adheres to the The APA style is generally followed in management-related projects. Although they don't be penalized for minor formatting deviations for consistency, they must be consistent.
The APA style is based on the Name of the author. Year of publication. Title of the source Publisher or journal URL in case it is online
Do not mix different styles into the same project. That is one of the most frequent mistakes that students make.
How do I record references in the correct sequence
The reference lists should be made available at the conclusion of the program, following the conclusion and prior to adding annexures.
Rules to be followed
Arrange references alphabetically, starting with the author's surname.
If there is no author available, refer to the organization's
If there is no date available, you can use the word n d instead of year.
Use consistent spacing and font
Never recite references without being specifically demanded by your guide.
How to write book reference for IGNOU MBA project
Books are regarded as strong sources particularly for the theory chapters.
Format
Author surname, initials. Year. Title to the publication. Name of the publisher.
Example
Kotler, P. 2017. Marketing management. Pearson Education.
If the book contains multiple authors, list them with the exact order as stated in the book.
Avoid using guide notes or materials for coaching. Examiners can easily discern unofficial sources.
How to write journal articles? references
Journal articles are highly valued in MBA projects, especially when it comes to literature reviews.
Format
Author surname, initials. Year. The title in the text. Journal name volume number issue number and page range.
Example
Sharma, R. 2020. Engagement of employees and productivity. International Journal of Management Studies, 8 2, 45 to 58.
It is important to ensure that journal names are completed, not in abbreviated form.
How to write website references correctly?
Online sources are acceptable as long as they are reliable.
Make use of
the government sites
Annual reports of companies
Reputable business portals
Review journals for academics
Avoid blogs that are not authored by an authors or authorities.
Format
Author or Organization. Year. Title of the website. Name of the website. URL.
Example
Reserve Bank of India. 2022. Monetary policy framework. RBI Official Website. https://www.rbi.org.in
Do not copy the long tracker links. Use safe URLs.