How to Cite Paraphrase APA with Multiple Authors
Citing a paraphrase in APA format with multiple authors can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially for those who are new to the APA style. Paraphrasing involves summarizing a source in your own words while still giving credit to the original author. When the source has multiple authors, it’s important to follow the correct citation format to ensure accuracy and avoid plagiarism. In this article, we will guide you through the process of citing a paraphrase with multiple authors in APA format.
Understanding APA Format
Before diving into the specifics of citing a paraphrase with multiple authors, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of APA format. APA (American Psychological Association) is a citation style commonly used in the social sciences, education, and humanities. The APA format has specific guidelines for citing sources, including books, journal articles, and web pages.
Formatting the In-text Citation
When paraphrasing a source with multiple authors, the in-text citation should include the author(s)’ last names and the year of publication. If there are three or more authors, you can use “et al.” (meaning “and others”) after the first author’s name. Here’s an example:
> According to Smith, Johnson, and Brown (2020), the results indicate that… (Smith et al., 2020).
Formatting the Reference List Entry
The reference list entry for a paraphrase with multiple authors should include the author(s)’ names, the year of publication, the title of the source, the title of the container, other contributors, version or edition, publisher, and location (if applicable). Here’s an example:
> Smith, J., Johnson, L., & Brown, M. (2020). The impact of multiple authors on paraphrasing. Journal of APA Style, 10(2), 123-145.
Remembering the Order of Elements
When formatting the reference list entry, it’s crucial to follow the correct order of elements:
1. Author(s)’ names
2. Year of publication
3. Title of the source
4. Title of the container (if applicable)
5. Other contributors (if applicable)
6. Version or edition (if applicable)
7. Publisher
8. Location (if applicable)
Conclusion
Citing a paraphrase in APA format with multiple authors may seem challenging at first, but by following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent. Always remember to pay attention to the number of authors and the correct order of elements in the reference list entry. By doing so, you’ll be able to effectively credit the original authors while maintaining the integrity of your work.
