How to Cite a Book in Vancouver (ICMJE)

Learn how to cite printed and electronic books in Vancouver format (ICMJE). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

Vancouver Reference List Format

Here is the standard Vancouver format for citing a book in your reference list:

Vancouver Example for a Book

A complete Vancouver reference for a book, formatted by the official Vancouver CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:

Matching in-text citation: (1)

Vancouver In-Text Citation

Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:

Key Vancouver Formatting Rules

• Do not italicize the title.
• Abbreviate author first names to initials.
• Include edition, place, publisher, and year.
• Use a semicolon before the year.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your book.
2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the Vancouver (ICMJE) template shown above.
3. Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
4. Add to your reference list: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
5. Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match Vancouver requirements.

Cite a Book in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in Vancouver

More Resources

• Free Citation Generator (10,834 styles)
• Free Writing Tools
• Compare Citation Styles
• All Citation Guides
• Cheat Sheets (APA, MLA, Chicago)
• Citation Glossary (et al., ibid., DOI, hanging indent)