How to Cite a TV Show in APA (7th edition)
Learn how to cite a TV show or series 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 tv show in your reference list:
Writer, A. A. (Writer), & Director, B. B. (Director). (Year, Month Day). Title of episode (Season #, Episode #) [TV series episode]. In A. Producer (Executive Producer), Series Title. Production Company.
APA Example for a TV Show
A complete APA reference for a tv show, formatted by the official APA CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
Alvarez, D. (2023, November 7). The archive (No. 3) [TV series episode]. In Field Notes. Public Broadcasting Network.
Matching in-text citation: (Alvarez, 2023)
APA In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(Creator, Year)
Narrative
Creator (Year) explores...
Key APA Formatting Rules
- Treat individual episodes like book chapters.
- List the writer and director as creators.
- Include the season and episode number in parentheses.
- Name the executive producer in the In position.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your tv show.
- 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.
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