How to Cite from Website without Author
Citing sources is an essential part of academic writing, as it gives credit to the original authors and helps readers locate the sources for further reference. However, sometimes you may come across a website that does not provide an author’s name. In such cases, it can be challenging to cite the source correctly. This article will guide you on how to cite from a website without an author.
1. Start with the Website Title
When citing a website without an author, the first element you should include is the title of the website. This can usually be found at the top of the webpage or in the browser’s title bar. For example:
Website Title
2. Include the URL
The URL is a crucial part of the citation, as it allows readers to locate the source. Make sure to include the full URL, including the “http://” or “https://” prefix. For example:
Website Title. URL: www.example.com
3. Specify the Date of Access
Since there is no author to provide a publication date, it is essential to include the date you accessed the website. This helps readers understand the timeliness of the information. For example:
Website Title. URL: www.example.com. Accessed on [Date].
4. Use a Parenthetical Citation
When incorporating the citation into your text, use a parenthetical citation with the website title and the date of access. For example:
(Website Title, Accessed on [Date])
5. Format the Reference List Entry
In your reference list, you will need to format the entry according to the citation style you are using (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Here is an example of how to format the reference list entry for a website without an author in APA style:
Website Title. (n.d.). URL: www.example.com. Accessed on [Date].
In MLA style:
Website Title. Web. [Date]. www.example.com.
In Chicago style:
Website Title. Accessed [Date]. www.example.com.
Conclusion
Citing from a website without an author can be challenging, but by following these guidelines, you can ensure that your citation is accurate and complete. Always remember to include the website title, URL, and date of access, and format your citation according to the citation style you are using.
