How to Cite an Email in PLOS (current)

Learn how to cite emails, letters, and personal communications 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 an email in your reference list:

PLOS Example for an Email

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

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 email.
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.

Cite an Email in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in PLOS

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)