How to APA Cite a Book with 2 Authors
In academic writing, proper citation is crucial for giving credit to the original authors of the work you have referenced. The APA (American Psychological Association) citation style is widely used in the social sciences, education, and other fields. When citing a book with two authors in APA format, it is important to follow the specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and consistency. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to APA cite a book with two authors.
Step 1: Start with the Author’s Last Name and First Initial
The first part of the citation is the author’s name. Begin with the last name followed by the first initial of the first name. Separate the names with a comma. For example:
Smith, J. R.
Step 2: Include the Year of Publication
Next, include the year of publication in parentheses immediately following the author’s name. This helps readers quickly identify the source. For example:
Smith, J. R. (2020)
Step 3: Add the Book Title
After the author’s name and publication year, include the title of the book. The title should be italicized and capitalized according to APA guidelines. Place a period at the end of the title. For example:
Smith, J. R. (2020). Understanding Psychology.
Step 4: Specify the Publisher
Include the name of the publisher after the book title. The publisher’s name should be followed by a comma. For example:
Smith, J. R. (2020). Understanding Psychology, New York: Pearson.
Step 5: Add Page Numbers for Direct Quotes or Specific References
If you are referencing a specific page or pages from the book, include the page numbers in parentheses after the publisher’s name. For example:
Smith, J. R. (2020). Understanding Psychology, New York: Pearson. (p. 45)
Step 6: In-text Citation
When referencing the book in your text, use an in-text citation that includes the author’s last name and the year of publication. For example:
According to Smith and Johnson (2020), the key factors in successful team collaboration are communication and trust.
By following these steps, you can accurately APA cite a book with two authors. Remember to always double-check the APA guidelines for any specific formatting requirements related to your field or publication. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original authors but also enhances the credibility of your work.
