How to Cite a Software or App in CSE (8th edition)
Learn how to cite software, an app, or computer program in CSE format (8th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
CSE Reference List Format
Here is the standard CSE format for citing a software or app in your reference list:
CSE Example for a Software or App
A complete CSE reference for a software or app, formatted by the official CSE CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
Sanchez R. 2024. RefCheck [Internet]. [place unknown]: Open Tools Collective. https://www.example.org/refcheck
Matching in-text citation: (Sanchez 2024)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your software or app.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the CSE (8th 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 CSE 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: cse.csl
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I cite a software or app in CSE?
- To cite a software or app in CSE (8th edition), include the author, title, date, and source location. Use our free citation generator for automatic formatting.
- What is the CSE format for a software or app citation?
- The CSE format for a software or app is: Sanchez R. 2024. RefCheck [Internet]. [place unknown]: Open Tools Collective. https://www.example.org/refcheck
- What does the in-text citation look like for a software or app in CSE?
- In CSE, the in-text citation for the example above is (Sanchez 2024)
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