How to Cite Article in Text with No Author
Citing an article without an author can be a bit tricky, but it’s an essential skill for academic and professional writing. When you’re referencing a source that doesn’t have an author’s name, it’s important to follow the proper citation format to ensure your readers can locate the original source. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of citing an article in text with no author, using both APA and MLA formats as examples.
APA Format
In APA format, when citing an article without an author, you typically include the title of the article, the publication date, and the page number in parentheses after the quote or paraphrase. Here’s an example:
According to the article titled “The Impact of Climate Change,” published in 2020, recent studies indicate a significant rise in global temperatures (Smith, n.d., p. 23).
If you’re citing the entire article, you can include the title in the first instance and then use “et al.” to indicate that there are additional authors:
Smith et al. (2020) conducted a comprehensive study on the effects of climate change, highlighting the urgency of implementing sustainable practices.
Remember to include the DOI or URL in the reference list for online articles.
MLA Format
In MLA format, the process is similar, but you’ll need to include the title of the article and the page number in parentheses after the quote or paraphrase. Here’s an example:
“The Impact of Climate Change” (Smith, n.d., p. 23) discusses the rising global temperatures and the need for sustainable practices.
When citing the entire article, you can include the title in the first instance and then use “et al.” to indicate that there are additional authors:
Smith et al. (2020) explore the effects of climate change and the importance of sustainable practices.
In the Works Cited list, include the title of the article, the publication date, and the page number:
Smith, [Author’s Last Name]. “The Impact of Climate Change.” [Journal Name], vol. [Volume], no. [Issue], [Year], pp. [Page Numbers].
Conclusion
Citing an article without an author is a common challenge in academic and professional writing. By following the proper citation format, you can ensure that your readers can locate the original source and give credit to the authors of the work. Whether you’re using APA or MLA format, always double-check the guidelines for your specific assignment or publication to ensure you’re following the correct procedures.
