How to In-Text Cite No Author APA 7
In academic writing, proper citation is essential to give credit to the original authors of the ideas and information used. APA 7, the latest edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, provides guidelines for in-text citations. One common scenario in which authors need to cite sources without an identifiable author is when using information from a website, a work with an anonymous author, or a source that does not provide the author’s name. This article will guide you on how to in-text cite no author APA 7.
1. Use the Title or Source in Parentheses
When citing a source with no identifiable author, you should include the title of the work or the source in parentheses following the cited information. This helps readers locate the source in the reference list. For example:
– The study found that online learning has significant benefits for students (Online Learning Benefits).
2. Cite the Date of Publication
It is crucial to include the date of publication when citing a source with no author. The date helps readers understand the timeliness of the information. APA 7 recommends using the year of publication, followed by the month and day if available. For example:
– Recent research suggests that social media use has a positive impact on mental health (Social Media Use, 2022 Mar 15).
3. Include the Source Type if Necessary
If the source type is not immediately clear, you can include it in parentheses after the title or date. Common source types include “Report,” “Interview,” “Podcast,” and “Blog Post.” For example:
– The interview with the CEO highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability (CEO Interview, 2021 Dec).
4. Use the DOI or URL for Online Sources
When citing an online source, include the DOI (Digital Object Identifier) or URL (Uniform Resource Locator) in parentheses after the title or date. This helps readers access the source directly. For example:
– The article discusses the importance of climate change adaptation (Smith, 2020; https://doi.org/10.1000/xyz123).
5. Cite a Chapter or Section without an Author
If you are citing a specific chapter or section from a book or report without an author, include the title of the chapter or section in parentheses after the cited information. For example:
– The chapter provides an overview of the study’s methodology (Methodology, 2021).
In conclusion, citing sources with no author in APA 7 involves using the title or source in parentheses, including the date of publication, and, if necessary, the source type and DOI or URL. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your in-text citations are accurate and compliant with APA 7 formatting standards.
