Here's a breakdown of what a typical citation might include:
Core Elements:
* Author(s): The last name and first initial(s) of the author(s) (or editor(s) if applicable).
* Year of Publication: The year the work was published.
* Title: The full title of the work, often italicized or underlined.
* Publication Information: This can include the journal name, volume and issue number, book publisher, or website URL.
Additional Elements (depending on the type of source and style guide):
* Edition: If applicable, the edition number.
* Page Numbers: The specific pages referenced from the source.
* DOI: Digital Object Identifier, a unique alphanumeric code assigned to online publications.
* Retrieval Date: The date you accessed online content.
* Location: For physical sources, the city and state (or country) of publication.
Example:
APA Style:
* Smith, J. (2023). The impact of social media on mental health. *Journal of Social Media Research, 5*(2), 123-145. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12652-022-03259-2
MLA Style:
* Smith, John. "The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health." *Journal of Social Media Research*, vol. 5, no. 2, 2023, pp. 123-145.
Key Points:
* Consistency: Use the same citation style consistently throughout your work.
* Accuracy: Ensure all information is correct and complete.
* Completeness: Include all relevant information for proper identification.
* Referencing Tools: Use citation management software or online tools to help create citations.
Remember, the exact elements included in a citation vary depending on the specific source and the chosen citation style. Refer to style guides like APA, MLA, Chicago, or Harvard for detailed instructions.