What to Write if No Author is Cited in APA Format
When writing a paper in APA format, it is essential to provide proper citations for all sources used. However, there may be instances where you need to cite a source that does not have an author. In such cases, it is crucial to follow the APA guidelines to ensure your citation is accurate and complete. This article will discuss what to write if no author is cited in APA format.
Using a Corporate or Institutional Author
If the source has a corporate or institutional author, you should include the name of the organization in the author position. For example, if you are citing a report from a government agency, you would write:
– (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 2020)
Using a Group Author
If the source is attributed to a group or team, you should include the group’s name in the author position. For example:
– (National Institute of Mental Health, 2019)
Using a DOI or URL
If the source does not have an author but has a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) or URL (Uniform Resource Locator), you should include it in the citation. Here’s an example:
– (APA, 2021). Retrieved from
Using a Database or Website Name
If the source is found in a database or on a website, you can include the name of the database or website in the author position. For example:
– (APA Style Blog, 2020). Retrieved from https://blog.apastyle.org/
Using a Title
If the source does not have an author, a corporate or institutional author, a DOI, URL, or database/website name, you can use the title of the source in the author position. However, it is important to note that this is not the preferred method, as it may not be as clear as using an author’s name. Here’s an example:
– (The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems, 2018)
Remember to Include the Date
In all cases, it is essential to include the publication date of the source in the citation. This helps readers determine the timeliness of the information provided.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when citing a source with no author in APA format, it is important to follow the guidelines provided by the APA. By using a corporate or institutional author, a group author, a DOI or URL, a database or website name, or the title of the source, you can ensure that your citation is accurate and complete. Always remember to include the publication date to help readers assess the relevance of the information.
