How to Cite an Email in Vancouver (ICMJE)

Learn how to cite emails, letters, and personal communications in Vancouver format (ICMJE). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

Vancouver Reference List Format

Here is the standard Vancouver format for citing an email in your reference list:

Vancouver Example for an Email

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

Matching in-text citation: (1)

Vancouver In-Text Citation

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

Key Vancouver Formatting Rules

• Vancouver (ICMJE) treats emails as personal communications, cited in the text only.
• Do NOT include the email in the numbered reference list.
• Give the sender's name, “email,” and the date in parentheses in the text.
• Obtain written permission from the sender and confirm the wording with them.

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 Vancouver (ICMJE) 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 Vancouver requirements.

Cite an Email in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in Vancouver

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)