How to Cite a Source with Multiple Authors APA
Citing a source with multiple authors in APA format can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially for those who are new to academic writing. However, following a few simple steps can help ensure that your citation is accurate and consistent with APA guidelines. In this article, we will discuss the proper way to cite a source with multiple authors using APA format.
Understanding the Format
Before diving into the specifics of citing a source with multiple authors, it’s essential to understand the basic format of an APA citation. Generally, an APA citation includes the author’s last name, the publication date, the title of the source, the title of the container, the publisher, and the page numbers (if applicable). For sources with multiple authors, the format slightly differs.
Formatting a Citation with Multiple Authors
When citing a source with multiple authors in APA format, you should follow these steps:
1. Start with the author’s last name followed by their first initial. Separate each author’s name with a comma.
2. After the last author’s name, include the publication date in parentheses.
3. Next, provide the title of the source in italics.
4. If the source is part of a larger work, such as an article within a journal or a chapter within a book, include the title of the container in quotation marks.
5. After the container title, provide the publisher’s name.
6. Finally, include the page numbers of the source, if applicable.
Here’s an example of a citation with multiple authors:
Smith, J., & Johnson, L. A. (2020). The impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems. Journal of Environmental Studies, 42(3), 123-145.
In this example, “Smith, J., & Johnson, L. A.” are the authors, “2020” is the publication date, “The impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems” is the title of the article, “Journal of Environmental Studies” is the title of the journal, and “42(3)” indicates the volume and issue number. The page numbers, “123-145,” are included to specify the range of pages where the article can be found.
Formatting a Reference List
When creating a reference list in APA format, it’s crucial to follow the same guidelines for citing sources with multiple authors. The reference list should be formatted with hanging indents, and each entry should begin with the author’s last name followed by their first initial. The publication date should be included in parentheses, and the rest of the citation should follow the same format as in-text citations.
Here’s an example of a reference list entry for a source with multiple authors:
Smith, J., & Johnson, L. A. (2020). The impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems. Journal of Environmental Studies, 42(3), 123-145.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent with APA format when citing a source with multiple authors. Remember to always double-check your work and consult the latest edition of the APA Publication Manual for any updates or changes to the guidelines.
