How to In-Text Cite Without Author in APA Format
In academic writing, proper citation is crucial for giving credit to the original authors of the sources used. APA (American Psychological Association) format is widely used in the social sciences and is known for its specific guidelines on how to cite sources. One common scenario in APA citation is when you need to cite a source without an author. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to in-text cite without 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 work that is not attributed to an individual author, such as a government document, a website, or a work that is published anonymously. Make sure you have the necessary information about the source, such as the title, publication date, and any other relevant details.
Step 2: Use a shortened title
When citing a source without an author in APA format, you should use a shortened version of the title in parentheses after the reference. The shortened title should be no more than 45 characters and should be written in sentence case. If the title is too long, you can use the first few words of the title, followed by ellipses to indicate that the title is shortened.
Example: (Title of the Source, 2020)
Step 3: Include the Publication Date
In APA format, it is essential to include the publication date of the source when citing it without an author. The publication date should be written in parentheses after the shortened title, followed by a comma.
Example: (Title of the Source, 2020,
Step 4: Include Page Numbers (if applicable)
If you are citing a specific part of the source, such as a chapter or a paragraph, include the page numbers in parentheses after the publication date. If the source does not have page numbers, such as a website, you can use a section number or any other relevant locator.
Example: (Title of the Source, 2020, p. 10)
Step 5: Follow the In-Text Citation Rules
When citing a source without an author in APA format, the in-text citation should follow the same rules as when citing a source with an author. If you have cited the source previously in your paper, you can use a shortened title and a parenthetical citation with the page number. If you have not cited the source before, you can use the shortened title and publication date in parentheses.
Example: (Title of the Source, 2020)
In conclusion, citing a source without an author in APA format requires following specific guidelines. By identifying the source, using a shortened title, including the publication date, and following the in-text citation rules, you can ensure that your paper is properly credited and meets the requirements of APA citation style.
