How to Cite a Reddit or Forum Post in Chicago (17th edition)

Learn how to cite Reddit threads, AMAs, and online forum or discussion-board posts in Chicago format (17th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

Chicago Bibliography Format

Here is the standard Chicago format for citing a Reddit post in your bibliography:

Chicago In-Text Citation

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

Key Chicago Formatting Rules

• Name the poster by username and put the post title or text in quotation marks.
• Identify Reddit (and the subreddit) as the site, then give the full Month Day, Year date.
• Reddit posts are usually cited in a note; they may be omitted from the bibliography.
• End with the direct URL of the post or comment.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your Reddit post.
2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the Chicago (17th 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 bibliography: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
5. Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match Chicago requirements.

Cite a Reddit or Forum Post in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in Chicago

More Resources

• Free Citation Generator (10,832 styles)
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• Cheat Sheets (APA, MLA, Chicago)