If you are writing a research paper in APA style, you will need to cite all sources used in your work, including any tables or figures. Proper citation is important to give credit to the original source and to allow readers to locate the information used in your research. Here, we will discuss how to cite tables in APA style.
Main Content
1. Understand the APA format for tables. In APA style, tables should be numbered and titled. The title should be in italics and placed above the table.
2. Identify the source of the table. This may be a book, journal article, website, or other source.
3. Include the author’s name and publication date in the citation. This may be included in the sentence or in parentheses immediately following the citation.
4. If the table was created by someone other than the author of the source, be sure to include this information in the citation.
5. If the table is from an online source, include the URL or DOI (digital object identifier) in the citation.
6. Use a hanging indent for the citation, where the first line is flush with the left margin and subsequent lines are indented.
7. If you are citing multiple tables from the same source, use letters to distinguish between them (e.g. Table 1a, Table 1b).
8. If you are reproducing a table in your paper, be sure to obtain permission from the copyright holder.
9. Double-check your citation for accuracy and completeness.
10. Always refer to the APA manual for specific guidelines on citing tables and other sources.
FAQ
How do I cite a table from a book?
Author Last Name, First Initial. (Year Published). Title of Book. Publisher.
How do I cite a table from a journal article?
Author Last Name, First Initial. (Year Published). Title of Article. Title of Journal, Volume Number(Issue Number), Page Numbers.
Do I need to include the page number of the table in my citation?
No, the page number of the table is not necessary in the citation.
How do I cite a table that I created myself?
You can simply include the table in your paper with a brief explanation of how it was created.
Can I use a table from a website in my research paper?
Yes, but be sure to include the URL or DOI in the citation.
Do I need to include the table in my reference list?
No, tables should be cited within the text of your paper, but do not need to be included in the reference list.
What if the table is too large to fit on one page?
You can split the table into multiple pages and include a note indicating that the table continues on the next page.
How do I cite multiple tables from the same source?
Use letters to distinguish between the tables (e.g. Table 1a, Table 1b).
Pros
Citing tables in APA style is important for giving credit to the original source and allowing readers to locate the information used in your research.
Tips
Be sure to check the APA manual for specific guidelines on citing tables and other sources.
Summary
Citing tables in APA style involves identifying the source of the table, including the author’s name and publication date, and using a hanging indent for the citation. Always refer to the APA manual for specific guidelines and double-check your citation for accuracy and completeness.
