How to Cite Wikipedia in APA (7th edition)

Learn how to cite Wikipedia articles and wiki entries 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 Wikipedia in your reference list:

APA Example for Wikipedia

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

Matching in-text citation: (“Citation,” 2024)

APA In-Text Citation

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

Key APA Formatting Rules

• Omit the author — Wikipedia articles are written collaboratively, so no individual is credited.
• Use the date the version you read was last edited, formatted as (Year, Month Day).
• Add "In Wikipedia." before the URL and link to the archived version (the permalink from the "View history" tab).
• Include a retrieval date before the URL only when you cannot link to an archived version.

Step-by-Step Guide

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

Cite Wikipedia in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in APA

More Resources

• Free Citation Generator (10,834 styles)
• Free Writing Tools
• Compare Citation Styles
• All Citation Guides
• Cheat Sheets (APA, MLA, Chicago)
• Citation Glossary (et al., ibid., DOI, hanging indent)