How to Do APA Without Author
Writing in APA style can sometimes be challenging, especially when there is no author listed for the source. However, it is still possible to format your reference correctly. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to do APA without author.
1. Start with the Title
When there is no author, the title of the source should be placed first in the reference list entry. Ensure that the title is written in title case, which means capitalizing the first letter of each major word.
2. Include the Publication Date
Next, include the publication date of the source. If the date is not available, you can use the date of retrieval or the copyright date.
3. Mention the Source Type
After the publication date, indicate the type of source you are referencing. For example, if it is a journal article, write “Journal Article.” If it is a book, write “Book.”
4. Add the Source Details
Include the details of the source, such as the volume, issue number, and page numbers (if applicable). For journal articles, you may also need to include the DOI (Digital Object Identifier) or URL (Uniform Resource Locator).
5. Use a Period After the Source Details
After including the source details, end the reference with a period.
6. Format the Reference List Entry
When listing the reference in the reference list, make sure to double-space the entries and use hanging indentation. The hanging indentation means that the second and subsequent lines of the reference should be indented one tab space from the margin.
7. Example of APA Without Author
Here is an example of how to format a reference in APA style without an author:
Journal Article
Title of the Article. (Year, Month Day). Title of the Journal, Volume(Issue), Page Range. DOI or URL
Book
Title of the Book. (Year of Publication). Publisher.
Conclusion
Formatting a reference in APA style without an author may seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can ensure that your reference list is accurate and compliant with APA guidelines. Remember to always double-check your work and consult the APA Publication Manual for any specific rules or exceptions.
