How many references should I list in my dissertation to ensure scholarly rigor and credibility? This query often perplexes many students embarking on their academic journey. Indeed, is there an optimal number of citations that signals thorough research without veering into excessive detail? Should one prioritize quality over quantity, emphasizing seminal works and recent studies in the field, or is there a need to demonstrate a breadth of knowledge through a larger compilation of sources? Furthermore, how does the discipline influence this decision? For instance, humanities may call for a more extensive bibliography, while empirical sciences might necessitate a more succinct list of pivotal studies. Moreover, are there institutional guidelines that dictate the required number of references? Ultimately, how does the varying expectations among academic institutions and publishers shape the final decision? Will I risk undermining my credibility if I fail to include an adequate number of references? These considerations can feel overwhelming.