How to Do In-Text Citation of Multiple Authors
In academic writing, citing sources is a crucial aspect that ensures the credibility and integrity of the research. One common scenario that arises while citing sources is when multiple authors are involved. This article will guide you on how to do in-text citation of multiple authors effectively and accurately.
Understanding Multiple Author Citations
When a work is attributed to more than one author, it is essential to acknowledge all contributors in the in-text citation. The format of the citation varies depending on the citation style you are using, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. Let’s explore how to do in-text citation of multiple authors in each of these styles.
APA Style
In APA style, when citing a source with multiple authors, include all authors’ last names in the parentheses, separated by commas. If there are more than six authors, list the first six authors followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”). Here’s an example:
– (Smith, Johnson, & Brown, 2020)
– (Smith, Johnson, Brown, Davis, & Wilson, 2020)
– (Smith, Johnson, Brown, et al., 2020)
MLA Style
In MLA style, the format for citing multiple authors is similar to APA. Include all authors’ last names, separated by commas. If there are more than three authors, list the first author followed by “et al.” Here’s an example:
– Smith, Johnson, Brown, et al. (2020)
Chicago Style
In Chicago style, the format for citing multiple authors is slightly different. When citing a source with two authors, include both names in the parentheses. For three or more authors, use the format “Author1, Author2, et al.” Here’s an example:
– (Smith & Johnson, 2020)
– (Smith, Johnson, Brown, et al., 2020)
Additional Tips
1. Always check the specific guidelines of the citation style you are using, as they may have specific rules for handling multiple author citations.
2. Pay attention to the publication date when citing multiple authors. Include the year of publication in the in-text citation.
3. If you are citing a source with multiple authors and it has been referenced in another source, use the original author’s name and publication year in your in-text citation.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively and accurately do in-text citation of multiple authors in your academic writing. Remember, proper citation not only gives credit to the original authors but also enhances the credibility of your research.
