How to Cite a Non-Print Source

Citing non-print sources is a crucial aspect of academic writing, as it allows readers to locate and verify the information used in a paper. This article provides an overview of the basic elements to include in citations for non-print sources and emphasizes the importance of accurate and complete citations.

In-Text Citations

In-text citations for non-print sources follow similar principles as citations for print sources. The first item that appears in the Works Cited list, such as the author’s name, article name, or film name, should be used in the in-text citation to direct readers to the corresponding entry in the reference list. For example, when citing a non-print source in APA style, the author’s last name and the publication year should be included in parentheses.

For instance, when referencing an audiovisual work, the in-text citation would follow this format: (Author’s Last Name, Year). If the author’s name is not available, you can use the title of the work instead.

Examples of in-text citations

– (Smith, 2020) – when citing a non-print source with an author.
– (“Title of Film,” 2018) – when citing a non-print source without an author.

Works Cited Entry

Including accurate and complete information in the Works Cited entry is essential for proper citation. Different formats apply to specific types of non-print sources, such as web pages or films. The following instructions and examples demonstrate how to format Works Cited entries in APA style.

Web page

Author’s Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial. (Year, Month Day). Title of the webpage. Site Name. URL

For example:

Doe, J. (2022, January 5). The importance of citing non-print sources. Example Website. https://www.example.com/importance-of-citing-non-print-sources

Film

Director’s Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial (Director). (Year). Title of the film [Film]. Production Company.

For example:

Smith, A. (Director). (2020). The Art of Non-Print Sources [Film]. Example Productions.

Examples of Citing Specific Non-Print Sources in APA Style

Published interview

To cite a published interview, follow the format for the specific reference type where the interview appears. For example, if the interview is on a podcast, cite the podcast using the podcast citation format.

Presentation at a conference or symposium

When citing a presentation, include the presenter’s name, the title of the contribution, the title of the symposium/conference, the location, and the URL if available.

Unpublished manuscript

For unpublished manuscripts, provide the author’s name, the manuscript title, and a description of the work within square brackets.

Personal communication

For personal communications that cannot be directly retrieved by readers, include the communicator’s name, the phrase “personal communication,” and the date of communication.

Conclusion

Consulting the specific style guide, such as MLA or APA, is crucial for detailed instructions on citing non-print sources accurately. This article has provided an overview of the basic elements of citations for non-print sources, including in-text citations and Works Cited entries. Maintaining consistency and attention to detail in citations is essential to uphold the integrity and credibility of academic writing.

Sources:

In-Text Citations – MLA Style Guide – LibGuides at University of Central Oklahoma Library. Retrieved from source 1
Reference List: Other Non-Print Sources – Purdue OWL® – Purdue University. Retrieved from source 2
Non-print sources citation: audiovisual works | Augustus C. Long Health Sciences Library. Retrieved from source 3

FAQs

What is a non-print source?

A non-print source refers to any type of information or material that is not in a traditional printed format, such as books or articles. It includes sources like audiovisual media, websites, interviews, presentations, and personal communications.

Why is it important to cite non-print sources?

Citing non-print sources is important for several reasons:

It gives credit to the original creators or authors of the source, acknowledging their intellectual property rights.
It allows readers to locate and verify the information used in a paper or research study.
It strengthens the credibility and reliability of your own work by demonstrating that you have consulted diverse and reputable sources.
It helps to avoid plagiarism by clearly distinguishing your ideas from the ideas of others.

How do you cite a non-print source in the body of the text?

When citing a non-print source in the body of your text, use an in-text citation. Depending on the citation style you are using (such as APA or MLA), this may involve including the author’s last name and the year of publication, or the title of the work if no author is available. The in-text citation directs readers to the full reference in the Works Cited or References list.

What information should be included in a Works Cited or References entry for a non-print source?

A Works Cited or References entry for a non-print source typically includes:

The author’s name (or the name of the organization or group responsible for the source).
The title of the source (such as the title of a webpage or the title of a film).
The publication or production date.
The name of the publisher or production company.
For online sources, the URL or DOI (Digital Object Identifier) may also be included.

How do you cite a non-print source like a website or webpage?

When citing a website or webpage, you typically include the author’s name (if available), the title of the webpage, the name of the website, the publication date (or the date you accessed the webpage), and the URL.

How do you cite an audiovisual source, such as a film or video?

When citing an audiovisual source like a film or video, you generally include the director’s name, the title of the work (in italics or quotation marks), the year of release, and the name of the production company or distributor.

How do you cite an interview, presentation, or personal communication?

For interviews, presentations, or personal communications, the citation format may vary depending on the citation style. Generally, you include the name of the person interviewed or communicating, a description of the source (such as “personal communication” or “interview”), the date of the communication, and any additional relevant information such as the medium of communication.

Where can I find more detailed guidelines for citing non-print sources?

For more detailed guidelines on citing non-print sources, it is recommended to consult the specific style guide associated with your academic discipline or institution. The APA Style Guide, MLA Handbook, or Chicago Manual of Style are commonly used resources that provide comprehensive instructions for citing various non-print sources.