Referencing Style: A study of PhD Theses in the University of Calcutta during 2019 to 2023 under the Faculty Council for Post-Graduate Studies in Engineering & Technology

Abstract Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the citation styles followed by researchers under the Faculty Council for Post-Graduate Studies in Engineering and Technology at the University of Calcutta between 2019 and 2023. It sought to identify the predominant referencing patterns and assess the extent of consistency in their application. Methodology: A quantitative content analysis was conducted using dissertations available in the Shodhganga digital archive. Each dissertation was manually reviewed, categorized by department and year, and examined to identify the citation styles used. The analysis focused on commonly adopted styles such as IEEE, APA, Vancouver, Harvard, and the prevalence of mixed or inconsistent formats. Findings: The results revealed that while IEEE, APA, Vancouver, and Harvard were the most frequently used styles, a significant number of dissertations relied on mixed citation formats. These were often applied inconsistently, reflecting the absence of a standardized referencing policy across departments. The study also observed that some disciplines demonstrated limited awareness of the variety of citation styles available or their importance in ensuring academic rigor. Implications: The findings highlight the need for a university-wide referencing guideline to ensure uniformity in citation practices. Additionally, targeted training for researchers and stronger supervisory oversight are recommended to enhance academic quality, maintain consistency, and uphold scholarly integrity in doctoral research.