How to in-text cite with no author in APA
In academic writing, proper citation is essential to give credit to the original authors of the ideas and information used. When citing sources in APA format, it is important to follow the guidelines for in-text citations, especially when dealing with sources that do not have an identifiable author. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to in-text cite with no author in APA format.
Step 1: Identify the source
Before you can cite a source with no author in APA format, you must first identify the source. This could be a website, a government document, or any other source that does not have an identifiable author. Make sure you have the necessary information about the source, such as the title, publication date, and URL or DOI.
Step 2: Use a shortened title
When citing a source with no author in APA format, you should use a shortened version of the title in parentheses after the opening quote. The shortened title should be no more than 45 characters and should be written in sentence case. For example:
“According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of people affected by mental health disorders is increasing worldwide (WHO, 2020).”
Step 3: Include the publication date
In APA format, it is important to include the publication date of the source in parentheses after the shortened title. This helps readers to determine the timeliness of the information. For example:
“According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2020), the number of people affected by mental health disorders is increasing worldwide.”
Step 4: Use a DOI or URL
When citing a source with no author in APA format, you should include either a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) or a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) to provide a direct link to the source. For example:
“According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2020), the number of people affected by mental health disorders is increasing worldwide (DOI: 10.1071/9780124095191).”
Step 5: Check for additional guidelines
While the steps outlined above provide a general guide for in-text citation with no author in APA format, it is important to note that there may be additional guidelines depending on the specific source. Always refer to the APA Publication Manual or the guidelines provided by your institution for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
In conclusion, citing sources with no author in APA format requires identifying the source, using a shortened title, including the publication date, and providing a DOI or URL. By following these steps, you can ensure that your in-text citations are accurate and adhere to APA guidelines.
