4 Chapter 4: In-Text Citations
In-text citations are a vital piece of an APA style paper. They inform the reader(s) that the paper is written from a research based perspective rather than an opinionated one. Here are two common ways in which in-text citations are used in APA papers.
- The beginning of a sentence can be started with an in-text citations. Take a look at the example below:
According to Konrad (2024), golf coaches who view themselves as confident are likely to attract more golf learners.
2. Now take a look at how an in-text citation can be used at the end of a sentence:
Golf coaches should obligate themselves to learn psychological skills while coaching golf learners (Konrad, 2024).
Note the slightly different formats for each version of the in-text citation.
3. When a reference has one to two authors the last name and year of publication must be stated every time the in-text citation is used:
According to Perrigot and Konrad (2024) coaches who emphasize academics, as well as athletics, achieve optimal performance during a sport season.
4. Here is how an in-text citation can be used at the end of a sentence when it has two authors:
Athletes who are a part of a high achieving team push themselves into unknown potentials (Perrigot & Konrad, 2024).
Hint: Know when to use an ampersand and when not to. Note the differences.
5. When a reference has three or more authors the writer can use et al. in order to signal multiple authors published the study:
Smith et al. (2023) suggested emotions are worth regulating during intense athletic performance competitions.
6. Here is how et al. can be used at the end of a sentence:
The harder the task is perceived by the athlete the less intense their focus should be on the overall completion of the task (Smith et al., 2023).
Note the differences. There are subtle little differences when writing in APA formatting and style. It is the responsibility of the author to know these differences. Please note the small variations when an in-text citation is used at the beginning of a sentence and when it is used at the end of a sentence.
