How to Make an In-Text Citation with Multiple Authors
In academic writing, proper citation of sources is essential to avoid plagiarism and give credit to the original authors. One common scenario that arises is when a source has multiple authors. Knowing how to make an in-text citation with multiple authors is crucial for maintaining academic integrity. This article will guide you through the process of creating an in-text citation with multiple authors, ensuring that your work is well-cited and recognized.
Understanding the Format
The format for in-text citations with multiple authors varies depending on the citation style you are using. The most common styles are APA, MLA, and Chicago. Here’s a brief overview of how to format an in-text citation with multiple authors in each style:
APA Style
In APA style, when citing a source with two authors, include both names in the text. For example: “According to Smith and Johnson (2020), the impact of climate change is evident in rising sea levels.” If there are three or more authors, only the first author’s last name is mentioned, followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”). For instance: “Research indicates that social media usage has increased among teenagers (Smith et al., 2020).”
MLA Style
In MLA style, the format is similar to APA. When citing a source with two authors, include both names in the text. For example: “Smith and Johnson (2020) argue that climate change is a significant global issue.” For three or more authors, use the first author’s last name followed by “et al.”: “The study found that social media usage has become a prevalent trend among teenagers (Smith et al., 2020).”
Chicago Style
In Chicago style, the format differs slightly from APA and MLA. When citing a source with two authors, include both names in the text. For example: “Smith and Johnson (2020) contend that climate change is a pressing issue.” For three or more authors, use the first author’s last name followed by “et al.”: “The research suggests that social media usage has increased among teenagers (Smith et al., 2020).”
Remembering the Source
When creating an in-text citation with multiple authors, it’s essential to remember the source’s publication details, such as the title, publication date, and page numbers. This information will be useful when creating the reference list or bibliography, which provides a comprehensive list of all the sources you cited in your work.
Conclusion
Knowing how to make an in-text citation with multiple authors is a vital skill for any academic writer. By following the appropriate citation style and format, you can ensure that your work is well-cited and recognized. Remember to include all necessary publication details and double-check your citations to maintain academic integrity.
