How to Cite Something with Two Authors
Citing sources with two authors is a common task in academic writing. Whether you are writing a research paper, a thesis, or any other scholarly work, proper citation is essential for giving credit to the original authors and avoiding plagiarism. In this article, we will discuss the different ways to cite something with two authors, including in-text citations, parenthetical citations, and reference list entries.
In-text Citations
In-text citations are brief references to the source within the text of your paper. When citing something with two authors, you should mention both authors’ last names in the text. If you mention the source in a sentence, simply include both authors’ last names before the period. For example:
– According to Smith and Johnson (2020), the results of the study were statistically significant.
If you mention the source in a separate sentence, you can use “and” to connect the authors’ names:
– Smith and Johnson (2020) conducted a study that revealed significant findings.
If you are paraphrasing the information, you can use “the authors” instead of mentioning the specific names:
– The authors found that the data were consistent with previous research.
Parenthetical Citations
Parenthetical citations are another way to cite sources with two authors. In this format, you include the authors’ last names, the year of publication, and the page number (if applicable) within parentheses. For example:
– The study showed a significant difference between the two groups (Smith & Johnson, 2020, p. 15).
If you are paraphrasing the information, you can use “the authors” instead of mentioning the specific names:
– The authors concluded that the results were significant (Smith & Johnson, 2020).
Reference List Entries
The reference list is a comprehensive list of all the sources you cited in your paper. When citing something with two authors, follow the appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) for your academic discipline. Here is an example of a reference list entry for a source with two authors using APA style:
– Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2020). The impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems. Journal of Environmental Studies, 5(2), 45-58.
Remember to follow the specific guidelines for each citation style, as the format may vary slightly.
Conclusion
Citing something with two authors is an essential aspect of academic writing. By following the proper citation conventions, you can give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism. Whether you are using in-text citations, parenthetical citations, or reference list entries, make sure to adhere to the guidelines of the citation style you are using. This will help you maintain the integrity of your work and demonstrate your respect for the intellectual contributions of others.
