How to Cite a Source with Two Authors APA
Citing a source with two authors in APA format can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially for those who are new to academic writing. However, following a few simple steps can help ensure that your citation is accurate and meets the requirements of the APA style guide. In this article, we will discuss the proper way to cite a source with two authors using APA format.
Formatting the In-text Citation
When citing a source with two authors in the text of your paper, you should include both authors’ last names and the year of publication. If you mention the author’s name in the sentence, you only need to include the year of publication in parentheses. For example:
– According to Smith and Johnson (2020), the results of the study were significant.
If you need to refer to the source again later in the text without mentioning the author’s name, you can use a shortened form of the citation. For example:
– The study found that the results were significant (Smith & Johnson, 2020).
Formatting the Reference List Entry
In the reference list, you will need to include the authors’ last names, first initials, the year of publication, the title of the source, the title of the container, other contributors, version or edition, number, publisher, and location. Here is an example of how to format a reference list entry for a source with two authors:
– Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2020). The impact of climate change on coastal communities. Journal of Environmental Studies, 12(3), 45-58.
If the source is an article from a journal, you will also need to include the volume, issue number, and page numbers. For example:
– Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2020). The impact of climate change on coastal communities. Journal of Environmental Studies, 12(3), 45-58.
Formatting the Reference List Entry for Different Types of Sources
It’s important to note that the format for the reference list entry may vary depending on the type of source you are citing. For example, if you are citing a book with two authors, the format will be slightly different. Here is an example:
– Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2020). The science of climate change. New York: Oxford University Press.
When citing different types of sources, such as a website, a chapter in a book, or a government document, the format will also change. Be sure to consult the APA style guide or a reliable source for the specific format for each type of source.
Conclusion
Citing a source with two authors in APA format may seem daunting at first, but by following these simple steps, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and meet the requirements of the APA style guide. Remember to always double-check your citations for consistency and accuracy, and consult the APA style guide or a reliable source for any specific formatting questions.
