How to Cite a Source with Multiple Authors in APA
Citing a source with multiple authors in APA style can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially for those who are new to academic writing. However, following a few simple guidelines can help ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent. In this article, we will discuss the proper format for citing a source with multiple authors in APA style.
Formatting the In-text Citation
When citing a source with multiple authors in APA style, the in-text citation should include the authors’ last names and the year of publication. If there are three or fewer authors, list all of their last names. For example:
> (Smith, Johnson, & Williams, 2020)
If there are more than three authors, list the first author’s last name followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”) and the year of publication. For example:
> (Smith et al., 2020)
Formatting the Reference List Entry
The reference list entry for a source with multiple authors should include the authors’ last names, first initials, the year of publication, the title of the source, the title of the container, other contributors (if applicable), the version or edition (if applicable), the publisher, and the location of the source. Here is an example of a reference list entry for a book with multiple authors:
> Smith, J., Johnson, L., & Williams, R. (2020). The Complete Guide to APA Style (6th ed.). Publisher Name.
For an article or chapter in an edited book, the reference list entry would include the authors of the article or chapter, the editor(s) of the book, the title of the article or chapter, the title of the book, the publisher, and the location of the source. Here is an example:
> Brown, A., & Davis, B. (2020). Citing sources with multiple authors. In J. Editor (Ed.), The APA Style Handbook (pp. 123-145). Publisher Name.
Remembering the Key Points
To summarize, when citing a source with multiple authors in APA style:
1. Include the authors’ last names and the year of publication in the in-text citation.
2. List all authors’ last names if there are three or fewer authors; use “et al.” if there are more than three authors.
3. Follow the proper format for the reference list entry, including all necessary information about the source.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of your academic work.
