How to Cite if There Are 3 Authors
Citing a source with three authors can sometimes be confusing, especially if you are new to academic writing. However, following a few simple guidelines can help you properly attribute the work to its original creators. In this article, we will discuss how to cite if there are three authors in your reference list.
Formatting the Citation
When citing a source with three authors, you should list all three names in the order they appear in the original source. Separate the names with commas, and use an ampersand (&) before the last name. Here’s an example:
> “Smith, Johnson, & Williams (2020) conducted a study on the impact of climate change on coastal communities.”
Using APA Style
In APA style, you should include the authors’ last names, first initials, publication year, title of the work, and the source of the publication. If the source is a journal article, include the volume, issue number, and page numbers. Here’s how you would format the citation:
> Smith, J. A., Johnson, B. C., & Williams, D. E. (2020). The impact of climate change on coastal communities. Journal of Environmental Studies, 42(3), 45-58.
Using MLA Style
In MLA style, you should list the authors’ last names and first initials, followed by the publication year, the title of the work, and the source of the publication. If the source is a journal article, include the volume, issue number, and page numbers. Here’s an example:
> Smith, J. A., Johnson, B. C., & Williams, D. E. “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Communities.” Journal of Environmental Studies 42, no. 3 (2020): 45-58.
Using Chicago Style
In Chicago style, you should list the authors’ last names, first initials, publication year, and the title of the work. If the source is a journal article, include the volume, issue number, and page numbers. Here’s how you would format the citation:
> Smith, J. A., B. C. Johnson, and D. E. Williams. “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Communities.” Journal of Environmental Studies 42, no. 3 (2020): 45-58.
Conclusion
Citing a source with three authors may seem daunting at first, but by following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that you properly attribute the work to its original creators. Remember to consult the specific citation style guide you are using to ensure you format your citation correctly.
