How to Reference a DOI Number

A Digital Object Identifier, also known as a DOI number, is a unique number assigned to a journal article when it is published online. The purpose of a DOI number is to provide an easy and permanent way to refer to specific articles, since URLs commonly change. MLA citation format does not require the use of DOI numbers, but APA style does encourage you to include the DOI number in your reference list entry if it is provided.

Instructions

    • 1

      Begin your reference list entry with the last name and first initial of the article author. For example:

      Smith, S.

    • 2

      Continue your citation with the year of publication in parentheses and followed by a period. For example:

      (2003).

    • 3

      List the title of the article. This should be followed by a period. Only proper nouns should be capitalized. You should also capitalize the first letter of the title. For example:

      An examination of the Chinese alligator.

    • 4

      List the title of the journal, the volume number, the issue number and the page numbers in the following format:

      American Journal of Biology, 45(19), 14-32.

      Italicize the name of the journal and the volume number. If there is no issue number, simply omit it.

    • 5

      List the full DOI number in the following format:

      doi:75674.78/66729090

      Be sure that the letters "doi" appear in lowercase letters. There should be no spaces.

      The full citation for your article should appear as follows:

      Smith, S. (2003). An examination of the Chinese alligator. American Journal of Biology, 45(19), 14-32. doi:75674.78/66729090

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