Understanding APA Citation Guidelines

In the American Psychological Association (APA) citation style, there is no provision for the use of the term ibid. This is because ibid is a Latin abbreviation for ibidem, meaning in the same place. While it can be used in other citation styles like Chicago and Turabian, APA recommends against using it for several reasons.

How to Cite in APA

The correct method of citing in APA involves using the author's last name and the publication date. Here’s how it works:

First Citation

Smith 2020 (Smith, 2020)

Subsequent Citations

Smith 2020 (Smith, 2020) Smith 2020, p. 15 (Smith, 2020, p. 15)

If you switch to a different source, you need to cite the original source again in full the next time you refer to it.

The Case Against IBID in APA

Although ibid might be used in other citation styles, APA discourages the use of this term. As noted by an authority on the topic, if you are having trouble with APA citations, you should refer to a librarian who is an APA expert. This recommendation is due to the fact that ibid can lead to confusion and inaccuracy in your references. Instead, the APA style promotes clear and straightforward citation practices.

Why Not Use IBID in APA?

Using ibid in APA can result in ambiguity. It’s crucial to follow APA guidelines to ensure clarity and consistency in scholarly writing. APA format specifically avoids many Latin abbreviations, including ibidem. This is because ibid can often lead to errors when referring to multiple pages or sources in a single citation. It is, therefore, essential to provide clear and detailed references to avoid any confusion for your readers.

Examples of APA Citation

Here are some examples of how to cite a source in APA style:

First Citation

Minow, J. N., LaMay, C. L. (2008). Inside the Presidential Debates: Their Improbable Past and Promising Future. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.

Subsequent Citations

Minow LaMay (2008, p. 24) Minow LaMay (2008, pp. 40-50)

These examples show how the APA style requires the use of the author's last name and the publication date. For specific pages, you include the page number(s) in brackets.

Conclusion

To summarize, if you're writing in APA style, you should not use ibid. This is because APA emphasizes clear and precise referencing to avoid ambiguity and errors. If you're unsure about APA citation rules, it’s best to consult with a librarian who can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your scholarly work is well-referenced and easy to follow, contributing to the integrity of your academic writing.