How to Reference Two Authors in Harvard Style
In academic writing, referencing is a crucial aspect that ensures proper credit is given to the original authors of the ideas and information used. The Harvard referencing style is widely used in various academic disciplines. When referencing two authors in a Harvard style, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and consistency. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to reference two authors in Harvard style.
Understanding the Format
The Harvard referencing style typically requires two main elements: the author’s name and the publication date. When referencing two authors, the format may vary slightly depending on the context. Below are the different scenarios and their respective formats:
1. When Both Authors are Cited in the Text:
If you mention both authors in the same sentence or paragraph, you should include both names in the in-text citation. For example:
“Smith and Johnson (2020) argue that the new policy will significantly impact the economy.”
2. When Only One Author is Cited in the Text:
If you mention only one author in the text, include the name of the other author in parentheses after the in-text citation. For example:
“Smith (2020) suggests that the new policy will have long-term effects on the economy (Johnson, 2020).”
3. When Both Authors are Cited Separately in the Text:
If you mention each author separately in different sentences or paragraphs, include both names in the in-text citation. For example:
“Smith (2020) highlights the importance of policy reform. Johnson (2020) argues that the new policy will have significant implications for the economy.”
Creating the Reference List
The reference list provides the full details of the sources cited in the text. When referencing two authors, the format for the reference list remains consistent with the general Harvard style. Here’s how to format the reference list entry:
1. For Books:
Author(s). (Year). Book title. Publisher.
Example:
Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2020). The economic impact of policy reform. Publisher.
2. For Journal Articles:
Author(s). (Year). Article title. Journal Name, volume(issue), page range.
Example:
Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2020). The economic impact of policy reform. Journal of Economics, 45(2), 123-145.
3. For Websites:
Author(s). (Year, Month Day). Website title. URL
Example:
Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2020, January 15). The economic impact of policy reform. Retrieved from www.example.com
Conclusion
Referring to two authors in Harvard style is an essential skill for academic writers. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your references are accurate and consistent. Proper referencing not only acknowledges the original authors but also enhances the credibility of your work.
