How to Cite Unknown Author APA 7
In academic writing, it is crucial to provide proper citations to acknowledge the original source of ideas and information. The APA (American Psychological Association) citation style is widely used in the social sciences, education, and other fields. When citing a source with an unknown author, it can be challenging to follow the standard format. However, with the release of APA 7th edition, there are specific guidelines to follow for citing unknown authors. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to cite unknown authors in APA 7th edition.
General Guidelines for Citing Unknown Authors
When citing a source with an unknown author in APA 7th edition, it is essential to include the following elements:
1. Title of the source: The title should be in italics and placed within quotation marks if it is a shorter work (e.g., an article or a chapter in a book).
2. Publication date: Include the year of publication if available.
3. Source type: Specify the type of source (e.g., book, journal article, website, etc.).
4. Publisher or host information: If applicable, include the name of the publisher or host.
Examples of Citing Unknown Authors
Here are some examples of how to cite unknown authors in APA 7th edition:
1. Book:
Title of the Book (Year of Publication). Retrieved from http://www.example.com/source
2. Journal Article:
Title of the Article (Year, Month Day). Title of the Journal, volume(issue number), page numbers. Retrieved from http://www.example.com/source
3. Website:
Title of the Web Page (Year, Month Day). Retrieved from http://www.example.com/source
4. Chapter in a Book:
Title of the Chapter (Year). In Editor’s Name (Ed.), Title of the Book (pp. page numbers). Publisher.
Formatting the Reference List
When formatting the reference list, follow these guidelines for citing unknown authors:
1. List the sources in alphabetical order by the first word in the title.
2. Use a hanging indent for the second and subsequent lines of each reference.
3. Capitalize the first word of the title, the subtitle, and any proper nouns.
4. Do not include the word “Retrieved” or “Accessed” in the reference list.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively cite unknown authors in APA 7th edition. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original source but also ensures that your readers can locate the information you have used. Remember to always double-check the specific requirements of your institution or publication to ensure compliance with the latest APA guidelines.
