How to Cite a PDF

When using information from a PDF document in your research or writing, it is important to cite it properly to acknowledge the original source. Citing a PDF is similar to citing other sources, but it requires some specific details due to its electronic format.

APA Format

In APA format, when citing a PDF, you should include the author’s name, publication year, title of the document, and the source (URL or DOI). For example: Author Last Name, First Initial. (Year). Title of Document. Retrieved from URL

MLA Format

For MLA format, your citation should include the author’s name, title of the PDF, publication date, website or database name, URL, and date of access. An example of MLA citation for a PDF would be: Author Last Name, First Name. “Title of Document.” Website or Database Name, Publication Date, URL. Accessed Date.

Chicago Style

In Chicago style, citations for PDFs should include the author’s name, title of the document, publication date, and URL. It can be formatted as: Author Last Name, First Name. Title of Document. Publication Date. URL

Remember to consult the specific guidelines of the citation style you are using to ensure you format the PDF citation correctly. Properly citing your sources not only gives credit to the original authors but also helps readers locate the information you used in your work.