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How to Cite a URL on a Reference Page

A quick glance at any well-researched academic paper will reflect the work of the author not only in the writing style, but in the wealth of citations concluding the paper. Borrowing ideas or using direct quotes from reputable online sources can strengthen a paper when the sources are well documented. In the social sciences, the American Psychological Association or APA is the most commonly used guide and has specific guidelines for citing online materials on a Reference Page.

Instructions

- 1
  List all contributors' names in the following format: Last, First Initial. If there is more than one contributor place a comma between each name.
- 2
  Type the last date the online source was edited if available. This information should be included in parenthesis and a period should follow. Use the following format: (Year, Month Date).
- 3
  
  Many articles can be accessed online.
  
  List the title of the article if citing an online periodical. Place a period and space after the title.
- 4
  List the title of the online resource in italics. In the case of an article this will be the name of the journal or newspaper; otherwise this will be the title of the website. Place a period and space after the title.
- 5
  Type the phrase "Retrieved from" and insert the full web address. Do not include any punctuation at the end of the address.
- 6
  
  Citing online material is not complicated when following APA guidelines.
  
  Review your full citation. APA style recommends that online citations be formatted in the same way as print publications with the addition of the URL or DOI at the end of the citation.

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