How to Write a Citation with 3 Authors
Writing a citation with three authors can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially if you are new to academic writing. However, it’s important to get it right, as proper citation is essential for giving credit to the original authors and avoiding plagiarism. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to write a citation with three authors, ensuring that your work is properly credited and meets academic standards.
1. Basic Format
The basic format for citing a source with three authors is to list all three names in the order they appear in the source. If you are using a citation style like APA, MLA, or Chicago, the format may vary slightly. Here’s a general guideline for each style:
– APA: (Author1, Author2, & Author3, Year). Title of the source. Source Publication.
– MLA: Author1, Author2, & Author3. “Title of the Source.” Source Publication, Year, pages.
– Chicago: Author1, Author2, and Author3. “Title of the Source.” Source Publication, Year, pages.
2. In-text Citation
When you mention the source in your text, you need to include an in-text citation. This citation should match the format you used in your reference list. For example:
– APA: (Smith, Johnson, & Williams, 2020)
– MLA: (Smith, Johnson, & Williams 45)
– Chicago: (Smith, Johnson & Williams 45)
3. Reference List Entry
In your reference list, you will need to provide more detailed information about the source. Here’s how to format the reference list entry for each style:
– APA: Smith, J., Johnson, L., & Williams, A. (2020). Title of the source. Source Publication.
– MLA: Smith, John, Lisa Johnson, and Alice Williams. “Title of the Source.” Source Publication, Year, pages.
– Chicago: Smith, John, Lisa Johnson, and Alice Williams. “Title of the Source.” Source Publication, Year, pages.
4. Additional Authors
If the source has more than three authors, you can use the “et al.” abbreviation to indicate that there are additional authors. For example:
– APA: (Smith, Johnson, Williams, et al., 2020)
– MLA: (Smith, Johnson, Williams, et al. 45)
– Chicago: (Smith, Johnson & Williams et al. 45)
5. Remember to Check the Style Guide
Always remember to consult the specific style guide you are using for any additional rules or formatting requirements. While the basic format outlined in this article is a good starting point, it’s essential to refer to the style guide for your specific field or publication.
In conclusion, writing a citation with three authors can be a straightforward process once you understand the basic format and follow the guidelines for each citation style. By properly crediting the original authors, you ensure the integrity of your work and contribute to the academic community.
