How to Write APA Citation with No Author
Writing an APA citation without an author can be a bit tricky, but it’s an essential skill to master for anyone working in the academic or research field. APA (American Psychological Association) style is widely used in the social sciences, education, and other disciplines, and it requires specific formatting even when the author’s name is not available. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating an APA citation without an author.
Understanding APA Format
Before diving into the specifics of a citation without an author, it’s important to have a basic understanding of APA format. APA style is known for its consistency and clarity, and it provides guidelines for how to structure a paper, format citations, and more. When citing a source without an author, the format typically includes the publication date, the title of the source, and the retrieval information (if applicable).
Formatting a Citation Without an Author
To create an APA citation without an author, follow these steps:
1. Begin with the publication date. This is the year the source was published, followed by a period. For example, “2019.”
2. Next, include the title of the source. The title should be placed in quotation marks, and the first word should be capitalized. For example, “Title of the Source.”
3. If the source is an online article, include the retrieval information. This includes the URL or DOI (Digital Object Identifier) of the source. For example, “Retrieved from www.example.com”
4. If the source is a book or chapter in a book, include the publisher’s name. This is followed by a comma. For example, “Publisher.”
5. End the citation with a period.
Examples of APA Citations Without an Author
Here are a few examples to illustrate how to write an APA citation without an author:
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2019. “Title of the Source.” Retrieved from www.example.com
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2019. Title of the Source. Publisher.
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2019. “Chapter Title.” In Editor’s Name (Ed.), Book Title (pp. 10-20). Publisher.
Remembering the Basics
When writing an APA citation without an author, it’s crucial to remember the following:
– Always include the publication date.
– Use quotation marks for the title of the source.
– Provide the retrieval information for online sources.
– Include the publisher’s name for books or chapters in books.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to create accurate and professional APA citations, even when the author’s name is not available.
