How to Cite a Journal Article in ACS (4th edition)
Learn how to cite peer-reviewed and academic journal articles in ACS format (4th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
ACS Reference List Format
Here is the standard ACS format for citing a journal article in your reference list:
ACS Example for a Journal Article
A complete ACS reference for a journal article, formatted by the official ACS CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
(1) Rivera, M.; Chen, D. The Mapping of Meaning: A Study of Citation Practice. Journal of Scholarly Communication 2021, 12 (3), 145–162. https://doi.org/10.1000/jsc.2021.145.
Matching in-text citation: 1
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your journal article.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the ACS (4th 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 ACS requirements.
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