What to Cite if No Author APA
In academic writing, referencing sources is a crucial aspect that ensures credibility and gives credit to the original authors. The APA (American Psychological Association) citation style is widely used in the social sciences, education, and business fields. One common scenario that may arise while citing sources is when there is no identifiable author. This article will provide guidance on what to cite if no author is mentioned in APA format.
Understanding APA Format
APA format requires the inclusion of author’s name, publication date, and page number for every source cited. However, when an author is not available, it can be challenging to determine what information to include in the citation. The key is to provide as much information as possible to identify the source accurately.
Formatting the Citation
When citing a source with no author, the format typically follows this structure:
– Title of the source
– Publication date
– Source of the publication (e.g., website, journal, book)
– URL or page number (if applicable)
For example, if you are citing an online article with no author, the citation would look like this:
– Title of the Article
– (Publication Date)
– Retrieved from URL
Example of a Citation with No Author
Suppose you found an article on a website titled “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Cities.” Since there is no author listed, the citation would be formatted as follows:
– The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Cities. (2021)
– Retrieved from https://www.examplewebsite.com/climatechange
Alternative Ways to Cite No Author Sources
In some cases, it may be challenging to identify the title or publication date of a source without an author. In such situations, you can use alternative methods to cite the source:
1. Cite the source by its title or a shortened version of the title.
2. Use the title of the publication or website instead of the author’s name.
3. Include the organization or company responsible for the publication if it is available.
Conclusion
When citing sources with no author in APA format, it is essential to provide as much information as possible to ensure the accuracy and credibility of your citation. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can effectively reference sources without an identifiable author and maintain the integrity of your academic work.
