How to Reference No Author APA
In academic writing, referencing is a crucial aspect that helps give credit to the original authors of the sources used. However, there are instances when a source does not have an identifiable author. In such cases, it is important to follow the guidelines provided by the APA (American Psychological Association) style to ensure proper citation. This article will discuss how to reference a source without an author in APA format.
1. Start with the Title
When referencing a source without an author, begin with the title of the source. If the title is a work of art, such as a painting or a sculpture, use quotation marks around the title. For example:
– “Mona Lisa” (painting)
If the title is a longer work, such as a book or an article, do not use quotation marks. For example:
– The Great Gatsby (novel)
2. Include the Publication Date
Next, include the publication date of the source. If the date is not available, you can use the year of the publication. For example:
– “Mona Lisa” (painting, 1503)
– The Great Gatsby (novel, 1925)
3. Specify the Source Type
After the publication date, specify the type of source you are referencing. For example:
– “Mona Lisa” (painting, 1503)
– The Great Gatsby (novel, 1925)
4. Add the Publisher or Website
If the source has a publisher or a website, include it in your reference. For example:
– “Mona Lisa” (painting, 1503) by Leonardo da Vinci, published by The Louvre Museum
– The Great Gatsby (novel, 1925) by F. Scott Fitzgerald, published by Charles Scribner’s Sons
If the source is found online, include the website URL. For example:
– “Mona Lisa” (painting, 1503) by Leonardo da Vinci, available at
5. Use a Parenthetical Citation
When citing the source in the text, use a parenthetical citation with the author’s name and the publication date. If the source does not have an author, only include the publication date. For example:
– According to “Mona Lisa” (1503), the painting is considered a masterpiece of the Renaissance (Leonardo da Vinci).
– The novel “The Great Gatsby” (1925) explores themes of the American Dream and social status (Fitzgerald).
In conclusion, referencing a source without an author in APA format requires following specific guidelines. By starting with the title, including the publication date, specifying the source type, and adding the publisher or website, you can ensure proper citation of the source. Remember to use a parenthetical citation in the text to reference the source accurately.
