How to Cite a Software or App in Chicago (17th edition)
Learn how to cite software, an app, or computer program 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 software or app in your bibliography:
Author Last Name, First Name. Title of Software. Version #. Place: Publisher, Year.
Chicago In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(Author Year)
Narrative
Author (Year) built...
Key Chicago Formatting Rules
- Italicize the software title.
- Include version number, publisher, and year.
- Include URL if accessed online.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your software or app.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the Chicago (17th edition) template shown above.
- Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
- Add to your bibliography: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
- Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match Chicago requirements.
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Skip the manual formatting. Paste a DOI, URL, or ISBN into CitationEasy and get a perfectly formatted Chicago citation in seconds.
Cite in Chicago Now →Cite a Software or App in Other Styles
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