How to In Text Cite APA with Three Authors
In academic writing, it is essential to properly cite sources to avoid plagiarism and give credit to the original authors. The American Psychological Association (APA) citation style is widely used in the social sciences, education, and business fields. When citing a source with three authors in APA format, there are specific guidelines to follow to ensure accuracy and consistency. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to in-text cite APA with three authors.
Step 1: Identify the Source
Before citing a source, it is crucial to gather all the necessary information, such as the author names, the title of the source, the publication date, and the page number(s) where the information is found. This information will be used to create the in-text citation and the reference list entry.
Step 2: Format the In-Text Citation
When citing a source with three authors in APA format, you should include all three author names in the text, separated by commas. If the source is cited within a sentence, the author names should be placed within parentheses after the quote or paraphrase. If the source is cited at the end of a sentence, the author names should be placed at the beginning of the sentence, followed by a comma.
For example:
– According to Smith, Johnson, and Brown (2020), the results indicate a significant correlation between the variables (p. 45).
– (Smith, Johnson, & Brown, 2020) suggest that the findings are consistent with previous research.
Step 3: Format the Reference List Entry
In the reference list, the entry for a source with three authors should follow the APA format, which includes the author names, the publication date, the title of the source, the source type, and the publisher or location of the source.
For example:
– Smith, J., Johnson, B., & Brown, L. (2020). The impact of social media on youth behavior. Journal of Youth Studies, 23(1), 45-60.
Step 4: Use the Correct Punctuation
When citing a source with three authors in APA format, it is important to use the correct punctuation to ensure clarity and readability. Follow these guidelines:
– Include all three author names in the in-text citation, separated by commas.
– Use a period after the last author’s name.
– If the source is cited within a sentence, place the author names within parentheses after the quote or paraphrase.
– If the source is cited at the end of a sentence, place the author names at the beginning of the sentence, followed by a comma.
By following these steps, you can effectively in-text cite APA with three authors. Proper citation not only helps you avoid plagiarism but also demonstrates your commitment to academic integrity and provides readers with the information they need to locate the original source.
