How to Cite a Documentary in IEEE (standard)

Learn how to cite documentary films and non-fiction films in IEEE format (standard). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

IEEE Reference List Format

Here is the standard IEEE format for citing a documentary in your reference list:

IEEE Example for a Documentary

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

Matching in-text citation: [1]

IEEE In-Text Citation

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

Key IEEE Formatting Rules

• List the director's initials and surname followed by dir.
• Give the documentary title, then place, distributor, and year.
• Add the streaming platform and URL if accessed online.
• Number references in order of first appearance.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your documentary.
2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the IEEE (standard) 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 IEEE requirements.

Cite a Documentary in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in IEEE

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)