How to Cite in APA with No Author or Date
Citing sources in APA style can sometimes be challenging, especially when dealing with sources that do not have an author or a publication date. However, it is important to follow the guidelines to ensure accurate and proper citation. In this article, we will discuss how to cite in APA style when a source lacks an author or a date.
When citing a source with no author, it is essential to include as much information as possible to help readers locate the source. According to the APA Publication Manual (7th ed.), the basic format for a citation without an author is as follows:
Source Type: Author, A. A. (Year published). Title of source. Retrieved from URL
For example, if you were to cite a webpage with no author, the citation would look like this:
Webpage. (n.d.). Title of webpage. Retrieved from https://www.example.com/webpage
In the case of a source without a publication date, you can use “n.d.” (which stands for “no date”) to indicate that the date is unknown. The basic format for a citation without a publication date is similar to that of a citation without an author:
Source Type: Author, A. A. (n.d.). Title of source. Retrieved from URL
For example, if you were to cite a research report with no author and no publication date, the citation would look like this:
Research Report. (n.d.). Title of report. Retrieved from https://www.example.com/report
It is important to note that when citing sources without an author or a date, you should still include as much relevant information as possible, such as the title of the source, the website or publication where it is located, and any other relevant details that may help readers identify the source.
In addition to the basic format, there are some specific guidelines to consider when citing sources without an author or a date:
1. When citing a source without an author, list the source by its title in the reference list. If the title is not available, use a shortened version of the source’s title or a description of the source.
2. When citing a source without a publication date, include the date you accessed the source in parentheses after the title.
3. If the source is a work of art, such as a painting or a sculpture, include the artist’s name and the title of the work in the citation.
4. If the source is a personal communication, such as an email or a conversation, include the name of the person who provided the information in parentheses after the title.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your APA citations are accurate and consistent, even when dealing with sources that lack an author or a date. Remember, proper citation is crucial for academic integrity and helps readers locate the sources you used in your research.
