How to APA Citation with No Author
In academic writing, proper citation is essential to give credit to the original authors of the information you use. When citing sources in APA (American Psychological Association) style, one common scenario is encountering a source with no identifiable author. This article will guide you through the process of how to APA citation with no author, ensuring that your work adheres to the APA citation guidelines.
Understanding APA Citation Style
APA citation style is widely used in the social sciences, education, and other fields. It provides a standardized format for citing sources, including books, journal articles, websites, and other types of publications. One of the key components of APA citation is the author’s name, which typically appears at the beginning of the citation. However, in some cases, the author may not be specified, making it necessary to adapt the citation format accordingly.
Formatting a Citation with No Author
When citing a source with no author, it is crucial to include as much information as possible to identify the source. Here are the steps to format a citation with no author in APA style:
1. Start with the title of the source in italics.
2. Include the publication date in parentheses immediately following the title.
3. If the source is a journal article, include the volume, issue number, and page numbers after the publication date.
4. If the source is a book or a chapter in a book, include the editor’s name and the publication information after the title.
5. Finally, add the retrieval information for online sources, such as the URL or DOI.
Here is an example of a citation with no author for a journal article:
Psychological benefits of exercise (2019). Journal of Health Psychology, 24(6), 678-689.
And for a book:
Understanding human behavior (Ed. Smith, 2018). New York: Psychology Press.
Formatting a Citation with No Author in a Reference List
When creating a reference list, it is essential to follow the APA guidelines for formatting a citation with no author. The reference list should include the following elements:
1. The title of the source in italics.
2. The publication date in parentheses.
3. The source type (e.g., journal article, book).
4. The retrieval information for online sources.
Here is an example of a reference list entry with no author:
Psychological benefits of exercise. (2019). Journal of Health Psychology, 24(6), 678-689.
Conclusion
In conclusion, citing a source with no author in APA style requires adapting the traditional citation format to include as much information as possible to identify the source. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your work adheres to the APA citation rules and provides proper credit to the original authors.
