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How to Cite a Map in ACS (4th edition)

Learn how to cite printed maps, atlases, and dynamic maps like Google Maps 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 map in your reference list:

ACS Example for a Map

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

(1) Cartwright, N. Historic Library Districts of Boston, 2015.

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 map.
  2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the ACS (4th edition) 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 ACS 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: acs.csl

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I cite a map in ACS?
To cite a map in ACS (4th edition), include the author, title, date, and source location. Use our free citation generator for automatic formatting.
What is the ACS format for a map citation?
The ACS format for a map is: (1) Cartwright, N. Historic Library Districts of Boston, 2015.
What does the in-text citation look like for a map in ACS?
In ACS, the in-text citation for the example above is 1

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Cite a Map in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in ACS

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