How to Cite a Source Without Author
Citing a source without an author can be challenging, but it is a common occurrence in academic writing. Whether you are referencing a website, a journal article, or a book, it is essential to follow proper citation guidelines to give credit to the original source. In this article, we will discuss various methods for citing a source without an author, including APA, MLA, and Chicago styles.
APA Style
In APA style, when citing a source without an author, you should include the title of the source, the publication date, and the URL or DOI (Digital Object Identifier) if available. Here is an example:
– Title of the Source (Year). Retrieved from URL or DOI
For example:
– “Title of the Source (2020). Retrieved from www.example.com”
If the source is a webpage, you can also include the author’s name if it is available. However, if the author is not mentioned, you can simply use the title.
MLA Style
In MLA style, when citing a source without an author, you should include the title of the source, the publication date, and the URL or DOI. Here is an example:
– Title of the Source. Publication Date. Website Name. URL or DOI.
For example:
– “Title of the Source. 2020. Website Name. www.example.com”
In MLA style, it is important to note that you should not include the author’s name if it is not available.
Chicago Style
In Chicago style, when citing a source without an author, you should include the title of the source, the publication date, and the URL or DOI. Here is an example:
– Title of the Source. Publication Date. Website Name. URL or DOI.
For example:
– “Title of the Source. 2020. Website Name. www.example.com”
In Chicago style, if the source is a webpage, you can include the author’s name if it is available. However, if the author is not mentioned, you can simply use the title.
Conclusion
Citing a source without an author may seem daunting, but by following the appropriate citation style guidelines, you can ensure that you give proper credit to the original source. Whether you are using APA, MLA, or Chicago style, always remember to include the title of the source, the publication date, and the URL or DOI to accurately reference the source in your work.
