How to Write an In-Text Citation Without an Author
In academic writing, citing sources is crucial for giving credit to the original authors and avoiding plagiarism. One common scenario is when you need to include an in-text citation without an author. This situation can arise when you are referencing a source that does not have an identifiable author, such as a website, a government document, or a work of art. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing an in-text citation without an author, ensuring that your work is properly credited and adheres to academic standards.
Understanding the Format
When writing an in-text citation without an author, the format typically follows this structure: (Publication Date). Source Title. Source Website or Publisher. Access Date. In this format, the publication date is enclosed in parentheses, followed by the title of the source. Next, you include the website or publisher of the source, and finally, the access date if the source is online.
Example 1: Citing a Website
Suppose you want to cite a webpage without an author. The in-text citation would look like this: (2021). Website Title. Website Name. Accessed on Date. For instance, if you were referencing a webpage titled “The Impact of Climate Change,” the citation would be: (2021). The Impact of Climate Change. Climate Change Organization. Accessed on June 15, 2021.
Example 2: Citing a Government Document
When citing a government document without an author, the format remains the same. For example, if you are referencing a report published by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the in-text citation would be: (2020). EPA Report on Air Quality. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Accessed on July 20, 2021.
Example 3: Citing a Work of Art
In the case of a work of art, such as a painting or a sculpture, the in-text citation without an author would be: (1820). The Starry Night. Vincent van Gogh. Museum of Modern Art. Accessed on August 10, 2021.
Conclusion
Writing an in-text citation without an author is a straightforward process that requires following a specific format. By understanding the structure and applying it to various sources, you can ensure that your academic work is properly credited and meets the standards of academic integrity. Always double-check the formatting guidelines provided by your institution or publisher to ensure consistency in your citations.
