In-text citation helps the reader to locate the source of that information in the alphabetical references list at the end of your essay.
What needs to be cited in the text?
Any information (words, ideas, statistics, tables, data, pictures, photos, etc.) obtained from another author or source, including:
- textbooks
- lecture materials
- journals
- websites
- DVDs, etc.
In-text citation is needed for all information used in a direct quotation or as a paraphrase. Common knowledge, such as the symbol for water (H2O), does not need to be cited. Note: no distinction is made between print and electronic sources when citing in-text.
How to cite in-text using QUT APA
When you add a citation into your text you need to include the following information in the particular sentence or paragraph, either at the beginning or the end:
- Author’s family name or name of the source (organisation, government department, etc.).
- Year of publication (look for the copyright symbol © in the source). This is usually in the front pages of a book or at the bottom of an internet page.
- You must cite the Author and Year for each reference you cite, and each time you cite that reference, using parentheses or brackets as follows (exception: do not quote dates when citing the same work twice in the same paragraph)
- Quotation marks when copying the words exactly.
Other examples
In an investigation with older drivers (Perryman & Fitten, 1996) …
OR
Perryman and Fitten (1996) conducted an investigation with older drivers…
OR less commonly
In 1996 Perryman and Fitten conducted an investigation …
Examples of referencing and citation for common source types are available.
Citing page numbers
It is accepted in APA referencing that providing page numbers (or other location references) is only required for a direct quotation from another source.
However, the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (5th ed.) states on p. 121:
“When paraphrasing or referring to an idea contained in another work, authors are not required to provide a location reference (e.g., a page or paragraph number). Nevertheless, authors are encouraged to do so, especially when it would help an interested reader locate the relevant passage in a long or complex text.”
Therefore, it is best to check with your lecturer as to her/his preferences in this matter. The APA examples provided are a mix of both alternatives.