APA 7 In-Text Citation Example
What do you mean by APA 7 In-Text Citation?
In academic writing, it is crucial to provide proper citations and references to acknowledge the sources of information used. APA (American Psychological Association) style is one of the most commonly used citation styles in the social sciences. The APA 7th edition provides guidelines for citing sources within the text of a paper, called in-text citations. These in-text citations help readers locate the full reference in the reference list at the end of the document.
How to use APA 7 In-Text Citation?
To use APA 7 in-text citation, you need to include the author’s last name and the year of publication. This information can be presented in two different ways:
1. Directly quoting: When directly quoting from a source, include the author’s last name, the year of publication, and the page number where the quote can be found. For example, (Smith, 2021, p. 45).
2. Paraphrasing or summarizing: When paraphrasing or summarizing an author’s ideas, you still need to acknowledge the original source. Include the author’s last name and the year of publication, but no page number is required. For example, (Smith, 2021).
What is known about APA 7 In-Text Citation?

APA 7 in-text citation follows a specific format to ensure clarity and consistency in academic writing. It is essential to provide accurate and complete information to allow readers to locate the original source easily. In-text citations are used to support claims, provide evidence, and avoid plagiarism. By including in-text citations, you demonstrate your credibility as a researcher and give credit to the original authors.
Solution for APA 7 In-Text Citation
To create APA 7 in-text citations correctly, you need to follow these guidelines:
1. For a single author, include the last name and year of publication.
2. For two authors, include both last names and the year of publication, separated by an ampersand (&).
3. For three or more authors, include the last name of the first author, followed by et al. and the year of publication.
4. If there is no author, use the title of the source, followed by the year of publication.
5. If there are multiple sources with the same author and year, add lowercase letters (a, b, c, etc.) after the year of publication.
6. For direct quotes, include the page number after the year of publication, separated by a comma.
Additional Information about APA 7 In-Text Citation

It is important to note that some sources may have specific requirements for in-text citation formatting. For example, sources without page numbers, such as online articles, may require alternative methods of citation, such as paragraph numbers or section headings. Always consult the APA manual or the guidelines provided by your institution for specific situations.
Using APA 7 in-text citation not only helps you avoid plagiarism but also allows readers to easily locate and access your sources. By providing accurate and comprehensive citations, you contribute to the scholarly conversation and demonstrate your understanding of the topic. Remember to always double-check your citations for accuracy and consistency.
Conclusion
In-text citations are an essential component of academic writing, and APA 7 provides guidelines for creating them accurately. By following the APA 7 in-text citation format, you acknowledge the original authors, support your claims, and demonstrate your credibility as a researcher. Paying attention to proper citation practices enhances the quality of your work and ensures that your ideas are built upon a solid foundation of reputable sources.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use et al. in APA 7 in-text citations for all sources with three or more authors?
No, you should only use et al. after the first author’s last name in APA 7 in-text citations. The names of all authors should be listed in the reference list.
2. How should I cite a source with no date in APA 7 in-text citation?
If a source does not have a publication date, use n.d. (which stands for no date) in the place where the year would normally appear.
3. Do I need to include a page number in APA 7 in-text citation for paraphrased information?
No, page numbers are not required for paraphrased information in APA 7 in-text citation. However, it is good practice to provide page numbers when directly quoting from a source.
4. Can I use APA 7 in-text citation for non-academic writing?
While APA 7 in-text citation is primarily used in academic writing, it can also be applied to other types of writing when the need for proper citation arises. However, it is advisable to consult the specific citation requirements of the target audience or publication guidelines.
5. Are there any online tools available to generate APA 7 in-text citations?
Yes, there are several online tools and citation generators available that can help you generate APA 7 in-text citations accurately. However, it is important to review and verify the generated citations for correctness and adherence to the APA style guidelines.