How to Cite an Online Source with No Author
Citing an online source without an author can be a challenging task, especially when adhering to specific citation styles such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. However, with the right guidelines, you can effectively reference such sources in your academic or professional work. In this article, we will discuss the steps to follow when citing an online source with no author, along with examples for each citation style.
APA Style
When citing an online source with no author in APA style, you should include the title of the source, the website name, the publication date, and the URL. Here’s an example:
– Title of the Source. (Publication Date). Retrieved from Website Name URL
For instance:
– “Understanding Climate Change” (2021). Retrieved from Climate Change.org URL
If the publication date is not available, you can omit it and include the date you accessed the source.
MLA Style
In MLA style, when citing an online source without an author, you should include the title of the source, the website name, the publication date, and the URL. The format is as follows:
– Title of the Source. Website Name. Publication Date. URL.
For example:
– “Understanding Climate Change.” Climate Change.org, 2021. URL.
If the publication date is not available, you can omit it and include the date you accessed the source.
Chicago Style
In Chicago style, when citing an online source with no author, you should include the title of the source, the website name, the publication date, and the URL. The format is as follows:
– “Title of the Source.” Website Name, Publication Date, URL.
For example:
– “Understanding Climate Change.” Climate Change.org, 2021. URL.
If the publication date is not available, you can omit it and include the date you accessed the source.
Additional Tips
– Always check the specific requirements of your institution or publication when citing sources.
– If the source is part of a larger website, include the name of the specific section or page.
– When in doubt, consult the official citation style guide for more detailed information.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively cite an online source with no author in APA, MLA, or Chicago style. Remember to always double-check the formatting and ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent throughout your work.
