How to Cite a Dataset in ASA (7th edition)
Learn how to cite a dataset or database in ASA format (7th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
ASA Reference List Format
Here is the standard ASA format for citing a dataset in your reference list:
ASA Example for a Dataset
A complete ASA reference for a dataset, formatted by the official ASA CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
Ferrari, Luca. 2023. Global reading habits survey, 2015-2022: Version 2.1. Open Data Archive. doi:10.1000/oda.2023.771.
Matching in-text citation: (Ferrari 2023)
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 ASA (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 ASA requirements.
Evidence and review notes
Worked examples are generated by citeproc from the published CSL definition, not written by a language model.
CSL style record: asa.csl
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I cite a dataset in ASA?
- To cite a dataset in ASA (7th edition), include the author, title, date, and source location. Use our free citation generator for automatic formatting.
- What is the ASA format for a dataset citation?
- The ASA format for a dataset is: Ferrari, Luca. 2023. Global reading habits survey, 2015-2022: Version 2.1. Open Data Archive. doi:10.1000/oda.2023.771.
- What does the in-text citation look like for a dataset in ASA?
- In ASA, the in-text citation for the example above is (Ferrari 2023)
Generate This Citation Automatically
Skip the manual formatting. Paste a DOI, URL, or ISBN into CitationEasy and get a perfectly formatted ASA citation in seconds.
Cite in ASA Now →Generate this citation
Paste a URL, DOI, ISBN, or the source details and get a finished ASA citation for a Dataset.
Open the Dataset Citation Generator →Bibliography Studio
Saved citations build a full bibliography in the Studio