Reference Book

A Reference Book is a reference document that is a book (which contains factual information about a particular subject or set of subjects, designed to be consulted for specific pieces of information rather than read cover to cover).

• Context:
  • It can be organized alphabetically, chronologically, or thematically to facilitate quick access to information.
  • It can contain cross-references, indexes, or table of contents to assist in locating relevant information.
  • It can be written by subject matter experts or compiled by editors to ensure accuracy and authority.
  • It can be published in print format, electronic format, or both.
  • It can be updated periodically to reflect new information or developments in the subject area.
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• Example(s):
  • an Encyclopedia, such as:
    • Encyclopedia Britannica, a comprehensive reference work covering various branches of knowledge.
    • Wikipedia, a collaborative online encyclopedia with articles on a wide range of topics.
    • ...
  • a Dictionary, such as:
    • Oxford English Dictionary, a comprehensive dictionary of the English language.
    • Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a popular American English dictionary.
    • ...
  • a Thesaurus, such as Roget's Thesaurus, which provides synonyms, antonyms, and related words.
  • a Handbook or Manual, such as:
    • (Nisbet et al., 2009) a handbook of statistical analysis and data mining techniques.
    • (Strunk & White, 1999) a style manual for writing in the English language.
    • ...
  • a Yearbook or Almanac, such as World Almanac and Book of Facts, which provides current and historical information.
  • a Directory, such as Yellow Pages, which lists businesses or organizations by category.
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• Counter-Example(s):
  • a Glossary.
  • an Annotation Guideline.
  • Textbooks, which are designed to be read sequentially for learning rather than consulted for specific information.
  • ...
• See: \Reference Work, Quick Reference, Self-Help Book, Travel Guide, Atlas.

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References

2009

• (Nisbet et al., 2009) ⇒ Robert Nisbet, John Elder, and Gary Miner. (2009). “Handbook of Statistical Analysis and Data Mining Applications." Academic Press. ISBN:0123747651

1999

• (Strunk & White, 1999) ⇒ William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White. (1999). “The Elements of Style, 4th Edition." Longman. ISBN:020530902X
  • NOTE: A classic reference book on writing style, grammar, and usage in the English language, originally published in 1920 and updated several times since.

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