How to Cite with More Than 3 Authors APA
In academic writing, it is common to come across sources that have more than three authors. When citing such sources in APA format, it is important to follow the correct guidelines to ensure accuracy and consistency. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cite with more than three authors in APA format.
Step 1: Identify the Source
The first step in citing a source with more than three authors is to identify the source itself. This includes noting the author names, the title of the source, the publication date, and any other relevant information such as the journal name or book title.
Step 2: Format the In-text Citation
When citing a source with more than three authors in APA format, the in-text citation should include the first author’s last name, followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”) and the year of publication. For example: (Smith et al., 2020).
Step 3: Format the Reference List Entry
In the reference list, the entry for a source with more than three authors should follow the standard APA format. The first author’s last name should be followed by the first initial of their first name, a comma, and then the last names of the remaining authors, each followed by a comma. The title of the source should be in sentence case, and the publication date should be included in parentheses. For example:
Smith, J. A., Johnson, B. C., Doe, E. F., & Lee, G. H. (2020). The impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems. Journal of Environmental Studies, 10(2), 123-145.
Step 4: Handling Subsequent Citations
When citing the same source multiple times, it is important to use a shortened form of the author names in subsequent citations. In APA format, the shortened form should include the first author’s last name, followed by “et al.” and the year of publication. For example: (Smith et al., 2020).
Step 5: Pay Attention to Author Order
It is crucial to pay attention to the order of the authors in the reference list. The order should be the same as it appears in the source. If the source does not specify an order, use the order in which the authors are listed.
By following these steps, you can accurately cite sources with more than three authors in APA format. Remember to always double-check the guidelines and consult the latest edition of the APA Publication Manual for any updates or changes to the format.
