How to Cite a Letter APA 7
Citing a letter in APA 7th edition can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the format. However, with a few simple steps, you can ensure that your letter is properly cited. In this article, we will guide you through the process of citing a letter in APA 7th edition format.
Formatting the In-text Citation
When citing a letter in-text, you need to include the author’s last name and the year of publication. If the letter is unsigned, use “Author” followed by the year in parentheses. For example:
– (Smith, 2020)
– (Author, 2020)
If the letter is part of a larger document, such as a book or journal, include the page number where the letter is found. For example:
– (Smith, 2020, p. 10)
Formatting the Reference List Entry
To cite a letter in the reference list, you need to include the author’s name, the year of publication, the title of the letter, the title of the collection or journal, the publisher, and the page number where the letter is found. Here’s an example:
– Smith, J. (2020). Letter to the editor. Journal of Psychology, 123(4), 10-15.
If the letter is unsigned, include “Author” in the reference list entry:
– Author. (2020). Letter to the editor. Journal of Psychology, 123(4), 10-15.
Formatting the Letter Itself
When including the letter in your document, make sure to follow these guidelines:
– Use a standard, readable font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, with a 12-point size.
– Double-space the letter, both between paragraphs and within the text.
– Indent the first line of each paragraph one half-inch from the left margin.
– Include a header with the page number on the top right corner of each page.
Additional Tips
– If the letter is part of a larger document, such as a book or journal, include the title of the document in parentheses after the letter’s title.
– If the letter is a personal communication, such as an email or a letter sent to you directly, you can include it in your notes section instead of the reference list.
– Always check the specific guidelines of your institution or publication for any additional requirements.
By following these steps and guidelines, you can ensure that your letter is properly cited in APA 7th edition format. Remember to always double-check your work to avoid any errors or inconsistencies.
