How do I cite a map in APA?

To cite a map in APA (7th edition), include the author, title, date, and source location. Use our free citation generator for automatic formatting.

What does the in-text citation look like for a map in APA?

In APA, the in-text citation for the example above is (National Geographic Society, 2015); (Google, n.d.)

How to Cite a Map in APA (7th edition)

Learn how to cite printed maps, atlases, and dynamic maps like Google Maps in APA format (7th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

APA Reference List Format

Here is the standard APA format for citing a map in your reference list:

National Geographic Society. (2015). North America [Map]. National Geographic. — For a dynamic map: Google. (n.d.). [Google Maps directions for driving from San Diego, CA, to Los Angeles, CA]. Retrieved June 21, 2026, from https://www.google.com/maps

APA Example for a Map

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

Cartwright, N. (2015). Historic library districts of Boston [Map]. Meridian Cartographic.

Matching in-text citation: (Cartwright, 2015)

APA In-Text Citation

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

Parenthetical

(National Geographic Society, 2015); (Google, n.d.)

Narrative

The National Geographic Society (2015) map shows...

Key APA Formatting Rules

Begin with the cartographer or organization, the year, and the map title, then add [Map] in square brackets and the publisher.
Italicize the map title; for a section of an atlas, treat it like a book chapter.
For a dynamically generated map (Google Maps), use Google as the author, (n.d.) for the date, a bracketed description of the view, and a retrieval date plus the URL.
Add the scale only if it is relevant to your discussion; APA does not require it.

Step-by-Step Guide

Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your map.
Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the APA (7th 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 APA requirements.

Evidence and review notes

Worked examples are generated by citeproc from the published CSL definition, not written by a language model. Editorial guidance and sources in this section were reviewed on 2026-08-14.

CSL style record: apa.csl

Editorial sources

APA Style — references →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I cite a map in APA?: To cite a map in APA (7th edition), include the author, title, date, and source location. Use our free citation generator for automatic formatting.
What is the APA format for a map citation?: The APA format for a map is: National Geographic Society. (2015). North America [Map]. National Geographic. — For a dynamic map: Google. (n.d.). [Google Maps directions for driving from San Diego, CA, to Los Angeles, CA]. Retrieved June 21, 2026, from https://www.google.com/maps
What does the in-text citation look like for a map in APA?: In APA, the in-text citation for the example above is (National Geographic Society, 2015); (Google, n.d.)