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How to Cite a Journal Article in APA (7th edition)

Learn how to cite peer-reviewed and academic journal articles 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 journal article in your reference list:

Author, A. A., & Author, B. B. (Year). Title of article. Title of Periodical, volume(issue), page–page. https://doi.org/xxxxx

APA In-Text Citation

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

Parenthetical

(Smith & Jones, 2024)

Narrative

Smith and Jones (2024) found...

Key APA Formatting Rules

  • Italicize the journal name and volume number.
  • Do not italicize the issue number.
  • Include the DOI as a URL (https://doi.org/xxxxx).
  • If no DOI, include the journal homepage URL.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your journal article.
  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 Journal Article in Other Styles

Journal Article in MLAJournal Article in ChicagoJournal Article in HarvardJournal Article in VancouverJournal Article in IEEE

Cite Other Sources in APA

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