How do I cite a dataset in APA?

To cite a dataset in APA (7th edition), include the author, title, date, and source location. Use our free citation generator for automatic formatting.

What does the in-text citation look like for a dataset in APA?

In APA, the in-text citation for the example above is (Author, Year)

How to Cite a Dataset in APA (7th edition)

Learn how to cite a dataset or database in APA format (7th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

APA Reference List Format

Here is the standard APA format for citing a dataset in your reference list:

Author, A. A. (Year). Title of dataset (Version #) [Dataset]. Repository Name. https://doi.org/xxxxx

APA Example for a Dataset

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

Ferrari, L. (2023). Global reading habits survey, 2015-2022 (2.1) [Data set]. Open Data Archive. https://doi.org/10.1000/oda.2023.771

Matching in-text citation: (Ferrari, 2023)

APA In-Text Citation

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

Parenthetical

(Author, Year)

Narrative

Author (Year) collected data showing...

Key APA Formatting Rules

Include version number if available.
Use [Dataset] as the description bracket.
Include the DOI or URL to the dataset landing page.
Name the repository as the publisher.

Step-by-Step Guide

Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your dataset.
Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the APA (7th edition) template shown above.
Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
Add to your reference list: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match APA requirements.

Evidence and review notes

Worked examples are generated by citeproc from the published CSL definition, not written by a language model. Editorial guidance and sources in this section were reviewed on 2026-08-14.

CSL style record: apa.csl

Editorial sources

APA Style — references →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I cite a dataset in APA?: To cite a dataset in APA (7th edition), include the author, title, date, and source location. Use our free citation generator for automatic formatting.
What is the APA format for a dataset citation?: The APA format for a dataset is: Author, A. A. (Year). Title of dataset (Version #) [Dataset]. Repository Name. https://doi.org/xxxxx
What does the in-text citation look like for a dataset in APA?: In APA, the in-text citation for the example above is (Author, Year)