How Do You Cite an Encyclopedia in a Paper?
Citation is a crucial step when using any type of reference material for papers. Even in schools, where a student's paper is not likely to be seen by the general public, instructors are often sticklers about getting citations right. In the real world of publishing, not citing a source can be grounds for a lawsuit. So, whether it's "practice" or the real thing for you, don't overlook the importance of proper citation.
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Instructions
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Determine which style--APA, MLA or other--you are required to use for your paper. Different schools, institutions and instructors rely on various citation styles, so this is an important step. According to the Modern Language Association, MLA style is generally used in the humanities. According to the American Psychological Association, APA style is used to codify scientific writing.
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Go to a website that lists information about the style you are using to cite the encyclopedia. Cornell University and Ohio State University both provide detailed information about citing an encyclopedia-- either online or in print--in both MLA and APA style. Match the encyclopedia source you are citing with the examples provided in the online style guides.
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Use the shorter, in-text reference style when citing an encyclopedia within the text of your paper. For MLA style, this includes the author's name and the page number of the information you are citing. For APA style, it also includes the year the encyclopedia was published. Online style guides give specific examples for each style.
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Cite the works in detail, according to the particular style you are using, on a page at the end of your paper. In MLA style, this page is called the Works Cited page, while in APA style it is called the Reference page.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are not sure whether your citation style is correct, don't hesitate to ask your instructor, or in the case of professional work, the entity that is publishing your work.
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