How to Cite with No Author in APA
Citing sources without an author in APA style can be a bit challenging, but it is still essential to follow the guidelines to ensure proper citation. When a source does not have an author’s name, it is crucial to include as much information as possible to help readers locate the source. In this article, we will discuss the steps to follow when citing sources without an author in APA style.
Step 1: Start with the Title
The first element of a citation without an author is the title of the source. Make sure to use the exact title as it appears in the source. If the source is a work of art, a book, or a journal article, include the title in quotation marks. For websites, use italics to indicate the title.
Step 2: Include the Publication Date
When citing a source without an author, include the publication date as the next element in the citation. If the publication date is not available, use “n.d.” (no date) to indicate that the date is unknown.
Step 3: Specify the Source Type
After the title and publication date, specify the source type to help readers understand the format of the source. Common source types include book, journal article, website, and interview. Use the appropriate abbreviation for the source type (e.g., “Book,” “Journal Article,” “Website”).
Step 4: Include the Publisher or Website Name
For books and journal articles, include the publisher’s name after the title. For websites, include the website name or the URL. If the publisher or website name is not available, you can omit this element.
Step 5: Add Page Numbers or Access Date
For journal articles, include the page numbers of the article. For websites, include the access date if the publication date is not available. For other sources, you can omit this element.
Example of a Citation without an Author
Here is an example of a citation without an author in APA style for a journal article:
> “Title of the Article.” Journal Name, volume(issue), year, pages. Retrieved from http://www.example.com/article
In this example, the article does not have an author, so the title is placed first, followed by the publication date, source type, publisher, and URL.
Conclusion
Citing sources without an author in APA style requires attention to detail and following the guidelines. By including the title, publication date, source type, publisher, and any additional information, you can create a comprehensive citation that helps readers locate the source. Always refer to the latest edition of the APA Publication Manual for the most up-to-date guidelines.
