How to Cite When There is No Author APA 7th
In academic writing, citing sources is an essential part of the process. It helps to give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism. However, sometimes you may come across sources that do not have an identifiable author. When using the APA 7th edition format, it is important to know how to cite these sources correctly. This article will guide you through the process of citing sources without an author in APA 7th format.
Understanding the Basics
When citing a source without an author in APA 7th format, it is crucial to include as much information as possible to identify the source. This typically includes the title of the source, the publication date, and the location of the information. If the source is found online, the URL or DOI (Digital Object Identifier) should be included as well.
Formatting the In-text Citation
In the in-text citation, you should still use the author’s last name if it is available. If the author’s name is not provided, you can use the first few words of the title instead. Make sure to capitalize the first word of the title and any major words that follow. For example:
– (Title of Source, 2021)
– (The Study of Climate Change, 2021)
If the title is long, you can use a shortened version that still clearly identifies the source. For instance:
– (Climate Change Research, 2021)
Formatting the Reference List Entry
In the reference list, you will need to provide the necessary information to identify the source. If the author’s name is not available, start the entry with the title of the source. Capitalize the first word of the title and any major words that follow. Then, include the publication date and the location of the source. If the source is found online, include the URL or DOI.
Here is an example of how to format a reference list entry without an author:
– Title of Source. (Year published). Retrieved from URL or DOI
For example:
– The Study of Climate Change. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.example.com/climatechange
Conclusion
Citing sources without an author in APA 7th format can be challenging, but it is essential to follow the guidelines correctly to avoid confusion and ensure academic integrity. By including as much information as possible and following the proper formatting, you can effectively cite sources without an author in your academic writing.
