How to in Text Cite without an Author APA
In academic writing, citing sources is a crucial aspect that ensures the integrity of the research and gives credit to the original authors. APA (American Psychological Association) citation style is widely used in the social sciences, education, and other fields. When citing sources without an author, it can be challenging to adhere to the APA guidelines. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to in-text cite without an author in APA format.
Step 1: Identify the Source
The first step in citing a source without an author is to identify the source itself. This could be a journal article, book, or any other publication that does not have an identifiable author. Once you have identified the source, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Use a Parenthetical Citation
In APA format, when citing a source without an author, you must use a parenthetical citation. The citation should include the year of publication and the page number(s) where the information was found. For example:
(Year, p. 123)
Step 3: Include the Title in the Parenthetical Citation
If the source does not have an author, you can include the title of the source in the parentheses to help readers identify the source. For example:
(Title of the Source, Year, p. 123)
Step 4: Include the Source in the Reference List
In the reference list, you must still include the source, even if it does not have an author. The reference should follow the APA format, including the title of the source, the year of publication, and any other relevant information. For example:
Title of the Source. (Year). Publisher.
Step 5: Use a DOI or URL
If the source is available online, you can include a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) or URL (Uniform Resource Locator) in the reference list. This will help readers locate the source more easily. For example:
Title of the Source. (Year). Publisher. https://doi.org/10.1234/example
Conclusion
In-text citing without an author in APA format can be challenging, but by following these steps, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and adhere to the APA guidelines. Remember to always check the specific requirements of your academic institution or publisher to ensure that you are following the correct citation format.
