How to Cite a Preprint in APA (7th edition)

Learn how to cite arXiv, bioRxiv, and other preprint server papers 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 preprint in your reference list:

APA In-Text Citation

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

Key APA Formatting Rules

• Name the preprint repository (e.g., PsyArXiv, bioRxiv) as the source — not a journal.
• Do not include a volume, issue, or page range — preprints are not yet published in a journal.
• End with the DOI as a full https://doi.org/ link, with no closing period.
• If the preprint has since been published, cite the final published version instead.
• Italicize the preprint title; keep the repository name in plain (roman) text. Use sentence case for the title (capitalize the first word, the first word after a colon, and proper nouns).

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your preprint.
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 a Preprint in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in APA

More Resources

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