Entries for Different Numbers of Authors
Reference
The number of authors in a source determines how the author names are formatted in the reference list. Below, you will find several examples of journal references with varying numbers of authors.
One author
| Format:
Author’s Last Name, Author’s First Initial. (Publication Year). Article Title: Subtitle. Journal Title, Volume (Issue), Page Range. |
| Example:
Johnson, M. (2019). The impact of climate change on biodiversity. Environmental Studies Journal, 15(2), 67-82. |
Two authors
| Format:
Author 1’s Last Name, Author 1’s First Initial., & Author 2’s Last Name, Author 2’s First Initial. (Publication Year). Article Title: Subtitle. Title of Journal, Volume (Issue), Page Range. DOI or URL |
| Example:
Garcia, A., & Martinez, S. (2020). Exploring the effects of social media on self-esteem. Journal of Social Psychology, 27(4), 123-139. https://doi:10.1080/01425699995441 |
Three to twenty authors
| Format:
Author 1’s Last Name, Author 1’s First Initial., Author 2’s Last Name, Author 2’s First Initial., & Author 3’s Last Name, Author 3’s First Initial. (Publication Year). Article Title: Subtitle. Journal Title, Volume (Issue), Page Range. DOI or URL |
| Example:
Smith, J., Adams, R., Collins, M., Turner, L., Walker, K., Roberts, P., Wilson, D., Harris, B., Thompson, A., Parker, L., Hall, E., Johnson, C., Lee, M., Lewis, H., Martin, G., Phillips, R., Robinson, S., Turner, A., Watson, N., & Young, P. (2018). The role of family support in child development. Journal of Child Psychology, 42(3), 201-215. https://doi:10.1080/1600910X.2017.1331931 |
More than twenty authors
| Format:
Author 1’s Last Name, Author 1’s First Initial., Author 2’s Last Name, Author 2’s First Initial., Author 3’s Last Name, Author 3’s First Initial., … Author 19’s Last Name, Author 19’s First Initial., Last Author’s Last Name, Last Author’s First Initial. (Publication Year). Article Title: Subtitle. Title of Journal, Volume (Issue), Page Range. DOI or URL |
| Example:
Anderson, T., Baker, P., Clark, R., Davis, E., Evans, F., Garcia, M., Seng, A. L., Sevel, K., Ed, E., Nell, A., Ten, T., Elin, K. J., Thomas, A., Thendy, S., Fall, W., Fint, E., Gurdy, A. K., Dondy, D., Egert, E., Nanda, A. L., … Young, R. (2022). The future of renewable energy: A comprehensive analysis. Journal of Environmental Studies, 35(1), 57-72. |
When two organizations are listed as authors, omit the comma before the ampersand.
Example:
American Psychological Association & American Psychological Society. (2020). Psychology of Children. Journal of Child Psychology, 16(23), 1–12.
Please note that these examples cover only a few scenarios. For other source types, such as books, websites, and more, refer to the APA Publication Manual or the APA Style website for specific guidelines.
With this full proof guidance on APA format paper, you should now have developed a solid understanding of the APA essay format.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in APA Essays
Writing an essay in APA format calls for attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines. To ensure your essay is correct and follows the APA style appropriately, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can undermine the quality and credibility of your work. Here are five common mistakes to be mindful of:
A. Incorrect In-Text Citations and References
One of the most critical aspects of APA essays is accurate in-text citations and corresponding references. Mistakes in citing sources can lead to plagiarism or improper attribution. Make sure to use the correct format for in-text citations, including the author’s last name and the publication year. Similarly, ensure that the reference list entries are complete and follow the prescribed format for different source types.
B. Improper Formatting and Styling
Improper formatting and styling can detract from the professionalism of your essay. APA essays require specific guidelines for margins, spacing, font size, and indentation. Make sure to set appropriate margins (usually 1 inch), use double spacing throughout the document, and choose a legible font such as Times New Roman or Arial in 12-point size. Additionally, pay attention to the correct use of italics, capitalization, and punctuation in headings, titles, and references.
C. Plagiarism and Ethical Considerations
Plagiarism is a serious offense in academic writing. It is crucial to properly attribute ideas, concepts, and direct quotes to their sources. Failing to cite sources or paraphrase without giving credit can lead to severe consequences. Familiarize yourself with APA guidelines for citing sources and use quotation marks or appropriate paraphrasing techniques to avoid plagiarism. Additionally, be aware of ethical considerations when conducting research involving human subjects and ensure proper acknowledgment and protection of their rights.
D. Inconsistencies in Headings and Subheadings
APA essays utilize a hierarchical system of headings and subheadings to organize content. Inconsistencies in the formatting and structure of headings can confuse readers and undermine the clarity of your essay. Use consistent formatting for each level of heading, including font style, capitalization, and alignment. Ensure that headings are properly nested and reflect the logical structure of your essay.
E. Neglecting the Abstract
The abstract is an essential component of APA essays, providing a concise summary of the main points and purpose of your research. Neglecting to include an abstract or not following the required format can be detrimental to your essay. The abstract should be a single paragraph, between 150 to 250 words, and placed on a separate page immediately after the title page. It should summarize the key elements of your essay, including the research question, methods, results, and conclusions.
You will be able to enhance the quality and professionalism of your APA essay by avoiding these mistakes. Bear in mind to carefully review and proofread your work for ensuring accuracy and adherence to the APA guidelines.
Need Further Help?
Mastering the APA essay format is an essential skill that empowers individuals to communicate their ideas effectively and present their research in a standardized and professional manner. By adhering to the APA guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you will enhance the credibility and readability of your essays, ensuring that your work is respected within the academic community. For further assistance, you can pay essay easily at our platform to get well-written essay by professionals.
Remember, mastering the APA essay format is a journey, and this guide serves as a valuable resource to assist you along the way. With a solid understanding of the guidelines and a commitment to meticulous attention to detail, you will be well on your way to producing exceptional essays that showcase your academic prowess.
