How to Cite in APA 7 with No Author
In academic writing, citing sources is an essential part of the process. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original authors but also helps readers locate the sources easily. When dealing with sources that do not have an author, it can be challenging to follow the guidelines of the APA (American Psychological Association) 7th edition. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cite in APA 7 with no author.
Step 1: Identify the Source
The first step in citing a source with no author in APA 7 is to identify the source itself. This could be a webpage, a book, or any other type of source that does not have an author’s name. Make sure you have the necessary information, such as the title, publication date, and URL (for online sources).
Step 2: Cite the Source in the Text
When citing a source with no author in the text, use a parenthetical citation with the year of publication. For example: (Year). If you need to include the title of the source in the text, use quotation marks and include the year of publication in parentheses. For example: (“Title of the Source,” Year).
Step 3: Create the Reference List Entry
The reference list entry for a source with no author in APA 7 should include the title of the source, the publication date, and the location of the source. Here’s an example of how to format the reference list entry:
– Title of the Source. (Year). Retrieved from URL
For online sources, include the URL in the reference list entry. For example:
– Website Title. (Year). Retrieved from www.example.com
For print sources, include the publisher’s name and location in the reference list entry. For example:
– Book Title. (Year). Publisher, Location
Step 4: Use a DOI or ISBN
If the source has a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) or ISBN (International Standard Book Number), include it in the reference list entry. This will help readers locate the source more easily. For example:
– Book Title. (Year). Publisher, Location. ISBN: 123-456-789-0
For online sources, include the DOI in the reference list entry. For example:
– Website Title. (Year). Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1234/example
Step 5: Check for Additional Guidelines
APA 7 provides additional guidelines for citing sources with no author, such as how to handle sources with a corporate author, government documents, and works with multiple authors. Be sure to consult the APA 7th edition manual or a reliable source for specific guidelines related to your source type.
In conclusion, citing sources with no author in APA 7 requires following a few key steps. By identifying the source, citing it in the text, creating a reference list entry, and checking for additional guidelines, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and compliant with APA 7th edition standards.
