How to Cite More Than One Author APA 7th Edition
In the APA 7th edition, citing multiple authors is a crucial aspect of academic writing. It is essential to follow the correct format to ensure proper attribution of sources. This article will guide you through the process of citing more than one author in APA 7th edition format.
Formatting Multiple Authors in APA 7th Edition
When citing more than one author in APA 7th edition, you have two options: listing all authors in the reference list or using “et al.” after the first author’s name. Here’s how to format both scenarios:
1. Listing all authors:
If there are three or fewer authors, list all their names in the reference list. Separate the names with commas, and use an ampersand (&) before the last name. For example:
> Smith, J., Johnson, L., & Brown, M. (2020). The impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems.
2. Using “et al.”:
If there are four or more authors, list the first author followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”) in parentheses. For example:
> Thompson, J. L., et al. (2021). The role of social media in political engagement.
Formatting In-text Citations with Multiple Authors
In-text citations with multiple authors also follow specific guidelines in APA 7th edition. Here’s how to format them:
1. For a reference with three or fewer authors:
Use all authors’ last names in the parentheses, separated by commas. For example:
> (Smith, Johnson, & Brown, 2020)
2. For a reference with four or more authors:
Use the first author’s last name followed by “et al.” in parentheses. For example:
> (Thompson et al., 2021)
Formatting Author-Date Parentheses
When citing a source with multiple authors in the text, you may need to adjust the author-date parentheses. Here are some guidelines:
1. If the source has two authors, place the year after both authors’ names. For example:
> (Smith & Johnson, 2020)
2. If the source has three or more authors, place the year after the first author’s name and “et al.” For example:
> (Smith et al., 2020)
Conclusion
Citing more than one author in APA 7th edition format is an essential skill for academic writers. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and properly attributed. Remember to always check the specific requirements of your institution or publisher when formatting your citations.
