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How to Cite a Journal Article in Vancouver (ICMJE)

Learn how to cite peer-reviewed and academic journal articles in Vancouver format (ICMJE). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

Vancouver Reference List Format

Here is the standard Vancouver format for citing a journal article in your reference list:

Author AA, Author BB. Title of article. Journal Name. Year;volume(issue):pages. doi:xxxxx.

Vancouver In-Text Citation

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

Parenthetical

(1)

Narrative

Smith and Jones (1) demonstrated...

Key Vancouver Formatting Rules

  • Abbreviate journal names per Index Medicus.
  • List up to 6 authors, then et al.
  • Include DOI if available.
  • Use a semicolon between year and volume.

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 Vancouver (ICMJE) 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 Vancouver requirements.

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Cite a Journal Article in Other Styles

Journal Article in APAJournal Article in MLAJournal Article in ChicagoJournal Article in HarvardJournal Article in IEEE

Cite Other Sources in Vancouver

Website in VancouverBook in VancouverYouTube Video in VancouverPodcast in VancouverNewspaper Article in VancouverPDF in VancouverInterview in VancouverSocial Media Post in VancouverGovernment Document in VancouverDissertation or Thesis in VancouverConference Paper in VancouverLecture or PowerPoint in VancouverImage or Photograph in Vancouver

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