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How to Cite a Dataset in PLOS (current)

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

PLOS Reference List Format

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

PLOS Example for a Dataset

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

1. Ferrari L. Global reading habits survey, 2015-2022. Open Data Archive; 2023. doi:10.1000/oda.2023.771

Matching in-text citation: [1]

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your dataset.
  2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the PLOS (current) 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 PLOS 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: plos.csl

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I cite a dataset in PLOS?
To cite a dataset in PLOS (current), include the author, title, date, and source location. Use our free citation generator for automatic formatting.
What is the PLOS format for a dataset citation?
The PLOS format for a dataset is: 1. Ferrari L. Global reading habits survey, 2015-2022. Open Data Archive; 2023. doi:10.1000/oda.2023.771
What does the in-text citation look like for a dataset in PLOS?
In PLOS, the in-text citation for the example above is [1]

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Cite a Dataset in Other Styles

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Cite Other Sources in PLOS

Website in PLOSBook in PLOSJournal Article in PLOSYouTube Video in PLOSPodcast in PLOSNewspaper Article in PLOSMagazine Article in PLOSBlog Post in PLOSWikipedia in PLOSPDF in PLOSInterview in PLOSSocial Media Post in PLOSGovernment Document in PLOSDissertation or Thesis in PLOSConference Paper in PLOSLecture or PowerPoint in PLOSWebinar in PLOSOnline Course in PLOSPowerPoint Presentation in PLOSImage or Photograph in PLOSMovie or Film in PLOSDocumentary in PLOSTV Show in PLOSSong or Music in PLOSPoem in PLOSCourt Case in PLOSPatent in PLOSEncyclopedia Entry in PLOSDictionary Entry in PLOSSoftware or App in PLOSVideo Game in PLOSPress Release in PLOSReport in PLOSPreprint in PLOSBook Chapter in PLOSChatGPT in PLOSBible in PLOSTED Talk in PLOSEmail in PLOSReddit or Forum Post in PLOSX (Twitter) Post in PLOSMap in PLOS

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