How to Cite a Encyclopedia Entry in APA (7th edition)
Learn how to cite an encyclopedia article or entry 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 encyclopedia entry in your reference list:
Author, A. A. (Year). Title of entry. In E. Editor (Ed.), Title of encyclopedia (Vol. #, pp. #–#). Publisher.
APA In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(Author, Year)
Narrative
Author (Year) defines...
Key APA Formatting Rules
- Treat like a book chapter: put entry title in plain text, italicize the encyclopedia.
- Include editor name(s) with Ed. or Eds.
- Include volume and page range if applicable.
- For online encyclopedias, include the URL.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your encyclopedia entry.
- 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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Cite in APA Now →Cite a Encyclopedia Entry in Other Styles
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Cite Other Sources in APA
Website in APABook in APAJournal Article in APAYouTube Video in APAPodcast in APANewspaper Article in APAPDF in APAInterview in APASocial Media Post in APAGovernment Document in APADissertation or Thesis in APAConference Paper in APALecture or PowerPoint in APAImage or Photograph in APAMovie or Film in APATV Show in APASong or Music in APACourt Case in APAPatent in APADictionary Entry in APADataset in APASoftware or App in APAPress Release in APAReport in APA