What to Do When Citing APA with No Author
In academic writing, citing sources is a crucial aspect that ensures proper attribution and avoids plagiarism. One common scenario in APA (American Psychological Association) citation style is encountering a source with no author. This can be challenging, but there are specific guidelines to follow to ensure accurate citation. This article will discuss what to do when citing APA with no author.
1. Start with the Title
When a source lacks an author, the title becomes the primary piece of information to include in the citation. Begin the citation with the title of the source, placed in quotation marks. For example:
“Title of the Source”
2. Include the Publication Date
The publication date is crucial in APA citations, especially when there is no author. Place the date in parentheses immediately following the title. Ensure the date format is consistent with APA guidelines, such as (Year, Month Day). For example:
“Title of the Source” (Year, Month Day).
3. Mention the Source Type
In APA, it is essential to specify the type of source being cited. This can include articles, books, websites, or other formats. Include the source type after the publication date, separated by a comma. For example:
“Title of the Source” (Year, Month Day), Source Type.
4. Add the Source Publication Information
When citing a source with no author, include the publication information, such as the journal name, book title, or website URL. This information should be placed after the source type, separated by a comma. For example:
“Title of the Source” (Year, Month Day), Source Type. Retrieved from [URL]
5. Follow In-text Citation Guidelines
In-text citations for sources with no author should include the author’s initials and the publication year. If the author’s initials are not available, use the first letter of the first word in the title. For example:
(Sources, 2022)
6. Use the Reference List
In the reference list, provide a full citation for the source with no author. Follow the same format as mentioned above, ensuring that the information is complete and accurate. For example:
Sources, J. (2022). Title of the Source. Source Type. Retrieved from [URL]
In conclusion, citing APA with no author can be a daunting task, but by following these guidelines, you can ensure accurate and proper attribution. Remember to include the title, publication date, source type, publication information, and in-text citation to maintain the integrity of your academic work.
