How to in-text cite four authors APA
In academic writing, proper citation is crucial for giving credit to the original authors of the ideas and information used. The APA (American Psychological Association) style is widely used in the social sciences, education, and business fields. When citing four authors in the text, it is important to follow the APA guidelines accurately. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to in-text cite four authors using APA style.
1. List all four authors in the text
When citing four authors in the text, list all of their names in the order they appear in the source. Separate the names with commas, and use an ampersand (&) before the last name. For example:
According to Johnson, Smith, Brown, and Davis (2020), the results of the study indicate a significant relationship between the variables.
2. Include the year of publication
After listing the authors, include the year of publication in parentheses. Place the year immediately after the authors’ names, separated by a comma. For example:
The impact of social media on teenagers’ mental health has been widely discussed (Smith, Brown, Davis, & Johnson, 2020).
3. Cite the source in the reference list
It is essential to include the full citation of the source in the reference list at the end of your paper. Follow the APA format for the reference list, which includes the author’s last name, first initial, publication year, title of the work, and source details. For example:
Smith, J., Brown, L., Davis, M., & Johnson, A. (2020). The effects of social media on teenagers’ mental health. Journal of Psychology, 10(2), 123-145.
4. Use shortened author names in subsequent citations
When citing the same source multiple times within the text, use shortened author names to avoid repetition. Include only the first author’s last name, followed by the first initial of the second author, and so on. For example:
As previously mentioned, the findings of Smith, Brown, Davis, & Johnson (2020) suggest that social media use is linked to increased anxiety among teenagers.
By following these steps, you can effectively in-text cite four authors using APA style. Remember to always check for the most recent guidelines from the APA publication manual to ensure accuracy in your citations.
