Vísunarkerfa

Vísunarkerfa is an Icelandic term that translates to “reference card” or “citation card” in English. It is commonly used within academic, educational, and professional contexts to describe a compact note or card that contains essential information about a source or reference. The primary purpose of a vísunarkerfa is to facilitate proper citation and quick access to source details during research, writing, or documentation processes.

Typically, a vísunarkerfa includes key bibliographic elements such as the author’s name, publication title, publication year, publisher, and page numbers. It may also contain additional notes or keywords relevant to the source’s content or its relevance to the research topic. The use of these reference cards helps ensure accuracy in citing sources, supporting the organization and efficiency of research workflows.

In Icelandic academic practice, vísunarkerfa is part of a broader system of reference management that emphasizes meticulous and systematic documentation of sources. Such cards can be collected and stored for later compilation into comprehensive bibliographies or reference lists. They are especially useful in environments where manual citation systems are employed, or digital tools are not used.

The concept of a vísunarkerfa reflects the importance placed on intellectual honesty and integrity in scholarly work, encouraging precise and consistent referencing. While traditionally a physical card-based method, digital equivalents—such as reference management software—have become increasingly prevalent. Nevertheless, the core idea remains a fundamental aspect of academic discipline in Iceland and beyond.