When to use "et al."
* In the text: If you are citing a work with three or more authors, use "et al." after the first author's last name in every citation except the first one.
* Example: "Smith et al. (2023) found that..." (This is the second or subsequent citation).
* In the References list: Always list all authors in the reference list.
When NOT to use "et al."
* First citation: When you cite a work for the first time, list all authors.
* Works with two authors: Always cite both authors in every citation.
* Personal communication: Do not use "et al." for personal communications, such as emails or interviews. Instead, cite the author's full name and the date of the communication.
Example:
First Citation:
(Jones, Smith, & Williams, 2022)
Subsequent Citations:
(Jones et al., 2022)
Remember:
* "Et al." is an abbreviation for the Latin phrase "et alii," which means "and others."
* Use a period after "et" and "al."
* Italicize the "et al." in the reference list.
Let me know if you have any other questions about APA style!