Mastering APA 7 Journal Article Citation: A Complete Guide for Students & Researchers

Jamie Mackenzie
6 min read · Oct 23, 2024

Introduction to APA 7 Journal Article Citation

In the realm of academic writing, precision and clarity are paramount. The APA 7 citation style, developed by the American Psychological Association, serves as a crucial framework for scholars and researchers across various disciplines. Whether drafting a thesis, writing a research paper, or preparing an article for publication, understanding how to properly cite sources is essential for maintaining academic integrity and lending credibility to your work. By adhering to APA 7 guidelines, you ensure that your readers can trace your sources, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability in scholarly communication.

One of the key features that sets APA 7 apart from other citation styles, such as MLA or Chicago, is its focus on the author-date citation method. This approach emphasizes the recency of the research, which is particularly relevant in fields where new findings emerge rapidly. Moreover, APA 7 includes specific formatting rules for various types of sources, including journal articles, books, and online materials, making it a versatile choice for diverse academic contexts.

As you delve deeper into this guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of citing journal articles in APA 7 style, including variations for online and print formats. By equipping yourself with this knowledge, you will not only enhance your writing skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of proper citation practices. Let’s embark on this journey to master the art of APA 7 journal article citation and elevate the quality of your academic work.

How to Cite a Journal Article in APA 7 Style

Step-by-Step Guide on Citing Journal Articles in APA

Citing journal articles accurately is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and allowing readers to locate sources. Here’s a concise guide on how to cite a journal article in APA 7 style.

1. Author(s): List the last name followed by initials for the first and middle names (if applicable). Use an ampersand (&) for multiple authors.
2. Publication Year: Enclose the year of publication in parentheses, followed by a period.
3. Article Title: Write the title of the article in sentence case—only the first word and proper nouns capitalized. Do not italicize or place it in quotation marks.
4. Journal Name: Italicize the journal name and capitalize all major words.
5. Volume and Issue: Italicize the volume number, and if there’s an issue number, include it in parentheses without italics.
6. Page Range: Provide the page range of the article.
7. DOI or URL: If available, include the DOI (Digital Object Identifier) in the format https://doi.org/xxxx. If no DOI is available, include the URL of the journal homepage.

Example Citation:
Smith, J. A., & Doe, R. L. (2020). The impact of chemical recycling on waste management. Journal of Environmental Science, 45(2), 123-134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jes.2020.01.001

Common Formats for Different Types of Articles

When citing articles and journals, variations exist based on the type of source. For instance, online articles may require a DOI, while print articles do not. Additionally, if you're citing articles from databases, ensure the citation follows APA guidelines without including database details unless necessary.

Understanding how to cite journal articles in APA style ensures clarity and consistency in academic writing. By adhering to these guidelines, researchers can uphold the quality of their work and contribute effectively to the scholarly conversation.

---

This section aims to provide readers with a clear understanding of how to properly cite journal articles in APA 7 style, which is essential for academic success.

Citing Trade Journals: A Focus on Chemical Recycling Articles

When it comes to academic writing, the precision of your citations can significantly impact the credibility of your work. In this section, we will explore how to properly cite trade journals, emphasizing articles related to chemical recycling, a crucial area in environmental sustainability.

How to Cite Trade Journals in APA 7 Style

Trade journals play a vital role in disseminating industry-specific knowledge and trends. Unlike academic journals, which are peer-reviewed and research-focused, trade journals provide practical insights and updates within particular fields.

When citing a trade journal article in APA 7 style, you will want to include specific elements in a structured format. The basic structure is:

Author(s). (Year, Month Day). Title of the article. Title of the Trade Journal, volume(issue), page range. URL (if applicable)

For instance, if you were citing an article about new chemical recycling methods, it might look like this:

Smith, J. (2023, January 15). Innovative approaches in chemical recycling. Chemical Recycling Today, 12(1), 34-37. https://www.chemicalrecyclingtoday.com/articles/innovative-approaches

Differences Between Trade Journals and Academic Journals

Understanding the distinctions between trade journals and academic journals is crucial for accurate citation. Trade journals are intended for practitioners and often focus on current trends, news, and practical applications. Conversely, academic journals publish research that has undergone rigorous peer review, contributing to scholarly discourse.

When citing trade journals, it's crucial to convey their practical value while maintaining the appropriate academic standards expected in your work. By understanding these differences, you can ensure your citations are accurate and meaningful, bridging the gap between theory and practice in your field.

In summary, correctly citing trade journals, especially in specialized fields such as chemical recycling, enhances your research’s credibility. Acquainting yourself with the nuances of citation styles will ensure that your work meets the academic standards required in your field.

Special Considerations for Citing Trade Journals

When conducting research, it's essential to reference reliable sources such as articles and journals. For example, a chemical recycling trade journal article can provide valuable insights into sustainable practices. To properly credit such sources, understanding how to cite a journal article in APA is crucial. Typically, the format for how to cite journal articles in APA style includes the author's last name, publication year, article title, journal name, volume, and page range. Additionally, including one article from a peer-reviewed scientific journal adds credibility and depth to your work, ensuring a robust academic foundation.