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How to Cite a Software or App in OSCOLA (4th edition)

Learn how to cite software, an app, or computer program in OSCOLA format (4th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

OSCOLA Bibliography Format

Here is the standard OSCOLA format for citing a software or app in your bibliography:

OSCOLA Example for a Software or App

A complete OSCOLA reference for a software or app, formatted by the official OSCOLA CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:

Sanchez R, RefCheck (Open Tools Collective 2024) <https://www.example.org/refcheck>

Matching in-text citation: Rosa Sanchez, RefCheck (Open Tools Collective 2024) <https://www.example.org/refcheck>.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your software or app.
  2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the OSCOLA (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 bibliography: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
  5. Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match OSCOLA requirements.

Generate This Citation Automatically

Skip the manual formatting. Paste a DOI, URL, or ISBN into CitationEasy and get a perfectly formatted OSCOLA citation in seconds.

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Cite a Software or App in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in OSCOLA

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