How to Cite with 3 Authors APA
When citing sources in APA format, it is important to follow the proper guidelines, especially when dealing with references that include three authors. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original authors but also ensures that readers can easily locate the source. In this article, we will discuss the steps to correctly cite a source with three authors using APA format.
Step 1: Start with the Author’s Last Name, Followed by First Initial
The first step in citing a source with three authors in APA format is to list the authors’ last names, followed by their first initials. Separate the authors’ names with commas. For example:
Smith, J. A., Johnson, B. C., & Lee, D. M.
Step 2: Include the Publication Date
After listing the authors, include the publication date of the source in parentheses. If the source is a book, include the year of publication. For journal articles, include the year, month, and day of publication. For example:
(Smith et al., 2020)
Step 3: Provide the Title of the Source
Next, include the title of the source in italics. If the source is a book, use the title as it appears on the cover. For journal articles, use the title as it appears in the journal. For example:
(Smith et al., 2020). Title of the Source
Step 4: Specify the Source Type
In APA format, it is important to specify the source type (e.g., book, journal article, website) to help readers locate the source. Include the source type in parentheses after the title. For example:
(Smith et al., 2020). Title of the Source (Book)
Step 5: Add Publication Information
Finally, provide the publication information for the source. For books, include the publisher and location. For journal articles, include the journal name, volume, issue number, and page numbers. For example:
(Smith et al., 2020). Title of the Source (Book). Publisher, Location.
In conclusion, citing a source with three authors in APA format involves listing the authors’ names, including the publication date, providing the title of the source, specifying the source type, and adding publication information. By following these steps, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and adhere to APA guidelines.
