Making the MBA project for IGNOU already takes enough effort. Topic selection, analysis, data collection, formatting and viva prep take students through months of preparation. There is also the subject of reference. It is the section where students get lost, not just because it's difficult, but simply because it is not explained precisely.
The majority of IGNOU MBA projects score low marks not because of poor research, but due to inadequate or negligent reference. Examiners notice references immediately. They make sure that sources are authentic, properly cited and formatted in a consistent manner. A lack of a reference section raises doubt about the authenticity of the entire document.
This article explains how to reference an IGNOU MBA project (go to this website) in a practical and simple manner, without using academic language.
References are important to the context of an IGNOU MBA project
References are proof that your work is based upon real study, not imagination. They prove that you've studied books, journals, reports, and reliable online sources.
IGNOU expects MBA students to show
understanding of current research
Ability to connect theories with practical
Understanding of authentic sources
If references are not present or poorly written, the project appears unfinished or copied. Even good content suffers because references reflect seriousness.
Reference section vs Bibliography
Many students make use of these terms interchangeably but they're not exactly the same.
References refer to only those sources that are actually mentioned in the project chapter.
Bibliography could also include reading material that has helped you to comprehend the topic, however it was not explicitly cited.
For IGNOU MBA projects it is more secure to utilize an References section. You should ensure that every referenced source is used within the content.
Which referencing style should you use for IGNOU MBA
IGNOU generally follows the The APA style is generally followed as it applies to projects that require management. While they're not able to disqualify minor formatting errors in consistency, it is important to be consistent.
The APA style is based on the Name of the author. Year of publication. Title of the Publisher or journal URL in case it is online
Do not mix different styles in the same assignment. This is among the most frequent mistakes that students make.
How do you make sure references are listed in the correct order?
The reference list should be presented at the end of the project, following the conclusion and prior to annexures.
Rules to be followed
Place references alphabetically by surname of author
If no author is available, use the organization that is named
If no date is readily available, use n instead of year
Use consistent spacing and font
Don't number references unless directed by your guide.
How do I write book references for IGNOU MBA project
Books are thought to be a reliable source with regard to theory, and especially the chapters on.
Format
Author surname, initials. Year. Title of the book. Publisher name.
Example
Kotler, P. 2017. Marketing management. Pearson Education.
If the book contains multiple authors, make sure they are listed in the same order stated in the book.
Avoid referencing guide notes or guidance materials. Examiners are able easily recognize unofficial sources.
How do you write a journal article references
Journal articles are highly appreciated for MBA projects, particularly in research.
Format
Author surname, initials. Year. The title of article. Journal name Volume number, issue number and page range.
Example
Sharma, R. 2020. Engagement and productivity of employees. International Journal of Management Studies, 8 2, 45 to 58.
It is important to ensure that journal names are full of characters, not abbreviated.
How to write website references correctly
Internet sources are acceptable provided they are reliable.
Make use of
the government sites
Company annual reports
Online business portals with a reputation for fraud
These journals are academic in nature.
Stay clear of blogs that don't have an source or author.
Format
Author or company. Year. Title of the website. Name of the website. URL.
Example
Reserve Bank of India. 2022. Framework for monetary policy. RBI Official Website. https://www.rbi.org.in
Do not paste large tracking link. Use safe URLs.