How to Cite Multiple Authors in Bluebook
Citing multiple authors in Bluebook can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially for those who are new to academic writing. Bluebook, also known as The Bluebook: A Uniform System of Citation, is a widely-accepted citation style used in legal and academic writing. In this article, we will discuss the proper way to cite multiple authors in Bluebook format.
When citing a source with multiple authors, the basic format is as follows:
1. Start with the author’s last name, followed by a comma and the author’s first name.
2. Add a comma after the first author’s name, then list the remaining authors in alphabetical order by their last names.
3. Include the title of the source in quotation marks.
4. Provide the title of the container, if applicable, in italics.
5. Include the publication information, such as the publisher, volume, issue, and page numbers.
6. End with the date of publication.
Here’s an example of how to cite a source with three authors in Bluebook format:
Smith, John, Jane Doe, and Emily Johnson, “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Cities,” Journal of Environmental Studies, vol. 10, no. 2, 2020, pp. 123-145.
For sources with more than three authors, you have two options:
1. List all authors in the initial citation, followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”) after the first author’s name. For example:
Smith, John, Jane Doe, Emily Johnson, et al., “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Cities,” Journal of Environmental Studies, vol. 10, no. 2, 2020, pp. 123-145.
2. Alternatively, you can list the first author followed by “et al.” in subsequent citations. For example:
Smith, John, et al., “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Cities,” Journal of Environmental Studies, vol. 10, no. 2, 2020, pp. 123-145.
Remember to maintain consistency in your citations throughout your document. If you choose to use the “et al.” option, make sure to apply it consistently to all subsequent citations of the same source.
Lastly, it’s important to note that Bluebook has specific rules for citing sources with multiple authors in different contexts, such as books, journal articles, and legal documents. Always refer to the Bluebook manual or an online citation guide for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to effectively cite multiple authors in Bluebook format and ensure your academic or legal writing adheres to the proper citation conventions.
