How to Cite Three Authors in APA 7th Edition
Citing sources correctly is an essential aspect of academic writing, especially when using the APA (American Psychological Association) citation style. One common scenario is when you need to cite a source that has three authors. In APA 7th edition, there are specific guidelines to follow to ensure accurate and consistent citation. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cite three authors in APA 7th edition.
Firstly, when citing a source with three authors, include all three names in the text of your paper. Separate the names by commas, and use an ampersand (&) before the last name. For example: “Smith, Jones, & Brown (2020) found that…”
In the reference list, list the authors’ names in alphabetical order by their last names. If the source has more than three authors, include the first author followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”) after the first author’s name. For example: “Smith, Jones, Brown, & Smith (2020)” or “Smith et al. (2020).”
Next, include the publication date in parentheses immediately following the authors’ names. For example: “Smith, Jones, & Brown (2020) found that…”
After the publication date, include the title of the source in italics. If the source is a book, include the book title. If it is an article, include the article title. For example: “Smith, Jones, & Brown (2020) found that the new policy significantly improved employee satisfaction.”
If the source is an online article, include the title of the article in italics, followed by the website name in regular font. For example: “Smith, Jones, & Brown (2020) found that the new policy significantly improved employee satisfaction. Retrieved from www.example.com.”
Finally, include the publication date and the URL (if available) in the reference list. For example:
Smith, J., Jones, B., & Brown, S. (2020). The new policy and employee satisfaction. Journal of Workplace Studies, 15(2), 123-145. https://www.example.com/article
In conclusion, citing three authors in APA 7th edition involves including all three names in the text, following the guidelines for listing authors in the reference list, and providing the publication date, title, and source information. By following these steps, you can ensure accurate and consistent citation in your academic writing.
