How to Cite a Source with 2 Authors
Citing a source with two authors can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially for those who are new to academic writing or research. However, with the right guidelines and a bit of practice, you can easily master the process. In this article, we will discuss the various ways to cite a source with two authors, both in-text and in the reference list.
Formatting the In-text Citation
When citing a source with two authors in your text, you need to mention both authors’ last names in the sentence. Here’s an example:
> According to Smith and Johnson (2020), the results of the study indicate a significant correlation between the variables under investigation.
If you’re paraphrasing the information, you can also include the authors’ names in parentheses after the quote:
> The study found a significant correlation between the variables (Smith & Johnson, 2020).
If you’re quoting the source directly, include the authors’ names, the year of publication, and the page number in parentheses:
> “The study’s findings demonstrate a clear relationship between the variables” (Smith & Johnson, 2020, p. 25).
Formatting the Reference List Entry
In your reference list, you’ll need to list both authors’ last names and initials, followed by the year of publication, the title of the source, the name of the publisher (if applicable), and any other relevant information. Here’s an example:
> Smith, J., & Johnson, A. (2020). The impact of [variable] on [topic]. Journal of [field], 15(2), 50-60.
If the source is a book, the format will be slightly different:
> Smith, J., & Johnson, A. (2020). The [book title]. Publisher.
Formatting for Online Sources
When citing an online source with two authors, you’ll follow the same general format as mentioned above, but with a few additional details. Include the URL of the source, the date of access, and any other relevant information:
> Smith, J., & Johnson, A. (2020). The impact of [variable] on [topic]. Journal of [field]. Retrieved from [URL] (Date of access).
Conclusion
Citing a source with two authors is a straightforward process once you understand the basic guidelines. By following the proper format for in-text citations and reference list entries, you can ensure that your work is properly credited and avoids plagiarism. Always remember to consult your specific citation style guide (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) for any additional formatting requirements.
