How to Reference Without Author in APA 7
In academic writing, citing sources is an essential part of the process. The American Psychological Association (APA) provides a comprehensive set of guidelines for referencing sources in the APA 7th edition. One common scenario where you might need to reference without an author is when you are citing a source that is not attributed to a specific individual. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to reference without an author in APA 7.
1. Start with the Title or Source
When referencing a source without an author, the first element you should include is the title of the work. If the title is a journal article, book, or website, you should include it in italics. For example:
Journal article: “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems” (italicized)
Book: “The History of the Internet” (italicized)
Website: “Environmental Protection Agency” (italicized)
2. Include the Publication Date
After the title, include the publication date of the source. If the date is known, use the year. If the date is not available, you can use “n.d.” (for “no date”). For example:
Journal article: “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems” (italicized) (2020)
Book: “The History of the Internet” (italicized) (2019)
Website: “Environmental Protection Agency” (italicized) (n.d.)
3. Add the Source Details
Next, include the source details that are relevant to the source you are referencing. This may include the volume, issue number, page numbers, or URL for a website. For example:
Journal article: “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems” (italicized) (2020). Journal of Environmental Studies, 12(3), 45-58.
Book: “The History of the Internet” (italicized) (2019). New York: Random House.
Website: “Environmental Protection Agency” (italicized) (n.d.). Retrieved from
4. Use a Parenthetical Citation
When you mention the source in your text, use a parenthetical citation that includes the title and publication date. For example:
“The impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems has been significant, as evidenced by recent studies (The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems, 2020).”
5. Note the Missing Author
In the reference list at the end of your document, note that the source does not have an author. You can do this by listing the source as “Author unknown” in the “Author” field. For example:
Author Unknown. (2020). The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems. Journal of Environmental Studies, 12(3), 45-58.
By following these steps, you can successfully reference a source without an author in APA 7. Remember to always double-check the guidelines for your specific citation requirements and to consult with your instructor or academic advisor if you have any questions.
