How to Provide In-Text Citation APA

In academic writing, proper citation is crucial for acknowledging the sources of information used. One of the most widely used citation styles is the APA (American Psychological Association) format. In-text citations are an essential part of APA style, as they allow readers to easily locate the sources referenced in the text. This article will guide you on how to provide in-text citations in APA format.

Understanding In-Text Citations

In-text citations are brief references that appear within the body of your paper. They typically include the author’s last name and the year of publication. The purpose of in-text citations is to give credit to the original source and to direct readers to the full reference list at the end of the paper.

Formatting In-Text Citations

To format an in-text citation in APA style, follow these guidelines:

1. Include the author’s last name and the year of publication.
2. If you quote a direct source, include the page number.
3. If you paraphrase a source, do not include the page number.

Here are some examples of in-text citations in APA format:

– According to Smith (2020), the impact of climate change on wildlife is significant (p. 25).
– The study found that exercise improves cognitive function (Smith, 2020).
– Climate change is a pressing issue that requires immediate action (Smith, 2020).

Quoting Direct Sources

When quoting a direct source, include the author’s last name, the year of publication, and the page number. If the author’s name is mentioned in the text, only the year and page number are required in the in-text citation.

Example:
– As Smith (2020) stated, “The data clearly shows that exercise has a positive effect on cognitive function” (p. 25).

Paraphrasing Sources

When paraphrasing a source, include the author’s last name and the year of publication. Do not include the page number unless it is crucial to the context of your discussion.

Example:
– Smith (2020) emphasizes the importance of exercise in maintaining cognitive health.

Multiple Authors

When citing a source with two authors, include both names in the in-text citation. For three or more authors, list only the first author followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”).

Example:
– According to Johnson, Smith, and Brown (2020), the benefits of exercise are well-documented.
– The research findings suggest that exercise can improve mental health (Smith et al., 2020).

Using Works Cited

After providing an in-text citation, include the full reference in the “Works Cited” list at the end of your paper. This list should be formatted according to APA guidelines, with complete information about each source.

In conclusion, providing in-text citations in APA format is essential for academic integrity and clarity. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your paper is properly cited and meets the expectations of your instructor or publisher.