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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

  1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your encyclopedia entry.
  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.

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Cite a Encyclopedia Entry in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in APA

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