How to Cite a Book with Three Authors
Citing a book with three authors can sometimes be confusing, especially when it comes to the formatting and structure of the citation. However, by following a few simple guidelines, you can ensure that your citation is accurate and consistent with the appropriate citation style. In this article, we will discuss how to cite a book with three authors in both APA and MLA formats.
APA Format
When citing a book with three authors in APA format, you should include all three authors’ last names and initials in the order they appear on the title page. If the book has a subtitle, include it as well. Here is an example of how to format a citation for a book with three authors in APA style:
Smith, J., Johnson, A., & Brown, C. (2020). Title of the Book (3rd ed.). Publisher.
If the book is a revised edition, you can include the edition number in parentheses after the title. If the book is part of a series, include the series title and the volume number in parentheses after the title.
MLA Format
In MLA format, the citation structure is slightly different from APA. When citing a book with three authors, you should still include all three authors’ last names and first initials. The title of the book should be in italics, and the publisher’s name should be included at the end of the citation. Here is an example of how to format a citation for a book with three authors in MLA style:
Smith, Jane, Andrew Johnson, and Charles Brown. Title of the Book. 3rd ed., Publisher, 2020.
If the book is a revised edition, you can include the edition number in parentheses after the title. If the book is part of a series, include the series title and the volume number in parentheses after the title.
Additional Tips
When citing a book with three authors, it is essential to pay attention to the following tips:
1. Always check the specific citation style guidelines for your assignment or publication.
2. If you are citing a source that has more than three authors, you can use “et al.” after the first author’s name and include the total number of authors in parentheses.
3. Make sure to capitalize all major words in the title of the book, including the subtitle.
4. Check for any additional formatting requirements, such as italics or quotation marks, depending on the citation style.
By following these guidelines, you can successfully cite a book with three authors in both APA and MLA formats. Remember to double-check your citations for accuracy and consistency, as proper citation is crucial for maintaining academic integrity.
