How to Quote in APA with No Author
Quoting sources without an author can be a common occurrence in academic writing, especially when referencing online materials or anonymous sources. The American Psychological Association (APA) provides specific guidelines on how to format such quotes in your paper. In this article, we will discuss the steps to follow when quoting in APA style with no author.
1. Include the Publication Date
When quoting a source with no author, it is essential to include the publication date in parentheses immediately following the quote. This helps readers identify the year the information was published and provides a reference point for the context of the quote.
Example:
According to a recent study (2019), the impact of climate change on global agriculture is significant (Smith, n.d.).
2. Use a shortened title
If the source does not have an author, use a shortened title of the work instead. Place the shortened title in quotation marks and follow it with the publication date in parentheses.
Example:
The report highlights the importance of sustainable practices in modern agriculture (“Sustainable Practices,” 2020).
3. Cite the source in the text
When quoting a source with no author, you must still include an in-text citation. Place the citation at the end of the quote, after the punctuation mark, and before the closing parenthesis containing the publication date.
Example:
The quote from the report (“Sustainable Practices,” 2020) emphasizes the need for immediate action.
4. Include the full reference in the reference list
Even though the source does not have an author, you must still include a full reference in the reference list at the end of your paper. The reference should include the shortened title, publication date, and any other relevant information, such as the publisher or URL.
Example:
Sustainable Practices. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.example.com/report
5. Use a unique identifier if necessary
In some cases, you may need to use a unique identifier, such as a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) or URL, to locate the source. Include this identifier in the reference list to ensure that readers can easily find the source.
Example:
Sustainable Practices. (2020). Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1234/example
By following these guidelines, you can effectively quote sources in APA style with no author. Remember to always check the latest APA guidelines for any updates or changes to the formatting rules.
