How to Cite an Author Citing Someone Else
In academic writing, it is essential to provide proper citations to acknowledge the original authors of the ideas and information you use. However, when an author quotes or paraphrases another source, it can be challenging to determine how to cite the original author. This article will guide you through the process of citing an author who is citing someone else, ensuring that you give credit where it is due and maintain academic integrity.
Understanding the Citation Format
Before diving into the specifics of citing an author citing someone else, it is crucial to understand the different citation formats. The most common citation styles are APA, MLA, Chicago, and Harvard. Each style has its own rules for citing indirect sources, so it is essential to consult the appropriate style guide for your specific requirements.
APA Style
In APA style, when citing an author who is citing someone else, you should include the original author’s name, the year of publication, and the page number (if available). For example:
> According to Smith (2018), Johnson (2015) argues that…
This format informs the reader that the information comes from Johnson’s work, which was cited by Smith.
MLA Style
In MLA style, the process is similar to APA. You should include the original author’s name, the year of publication, and the page number (if available). For example:
> Smith states that Johnson (2015) argues…
This format clearly indicates that the information is derived from Johnson’s work, as cited by Smith.
Chicago Style
In Chicago style, when citing an author citing someone else, you should use footnotes or endnotes. For example:
> According to Smith (2018, 45), Johnson (2015) argues…
This format includes the original author’s name, the year of publication, and the page number, which is placed in parentheses and followed by a comma.
Harvard Style
In Harvard style, the process is similar to APA and MLA. You should include the original author’s name, the year of publication, and the page number (if available). For example:
> Smith (2018) notes that Johnson (2015) argues…
This format clearly indicates that the information comes from Johnson’s work, as cited by Smith.
Conclusion
Citing an author who is citing someone else can be a bit tricky, but by understanding the rules of the specific citation style you are using, you can ensure that you provide proper credit to the original author. Always consult the appropriate style guide for your specific requirements and maintain academic integrity in your writing.
