How to Cite if There’s No Author
In academic writing, citing sources is an essential part of the process. It helps to give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism. However, what should you do when you come across a source with no author listed? This article will guide you through the proper citation format for sources without an author.
1. Start with the Title
When citing a source without an author, the title becomes the primary piece of information to include. Begin the citation with the title of the source, followed by a period. If the title is a work of art, such as a painting or a sculpture, use quotation marks around the title.
Example:
“The Scream” (painting)
2. Include the Date of Publication
Next, include the date of publication in parentheses immediately following the title. If the source is a book, include the year of publication. For journal articles, include the year, volume, and issue number (if available).
Example:
“The Scream” (painting, 1893)
3. Specify the Source Medium
After the date of publication, specify the medium of the source. For a painting, use “painting”; for a sculpture, use “sculpture”; for a song, use “song”; and so on.
Example:
“The Scream” (painting, 1893)
4. Mention the Publisher or Distributor
If the source has a publisher or distributor, include their name after the medium. If the source is self-published or the publisher is not known, omit this information.
Example:
“The Scream” (painting, 1893) by Edvard Munch
5. Add Page Numbers or URL
If the source is a specific section of a larger work, such as a chapter in a book or an article in a journal, include the page numbers or the URL where the source can be found.
Example:
“The Scream” (painting, 1893) by Edvard Munch, in “The Art of Edvard Munch” (pp. 23-25)
6. Use the Appropriate Citation Style
Finally, remember to use the appropriate citation style for your academic field. Common citation styles include APA, MLA, Chicago, and Harvard. Each style has its own rules for formatting citations, so be sure to consult the specific guidelines for your field.
In conclusion, when citing a source without an author, focus on the title, date of publication, medium, and any additional information that identifies the source. By following these steps, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and adhere to the appropriate citation style.
