How to Cite a YouTube Video
Introduction
Citing sources correctly is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and giving credit to original creators. Whether you're writing a research paper, a blog post, or a presentation, knowing how to cite a YouTube video is essential in today's digital age.
Understanding Citation Styles
There are various citation styles, each with its own set of rules. The most common styles include APA, MLA, and Chicago. Each style requires different information and has a unique format for citing YouTube videos.
Who Decides Citation Formats?
The formats for citing sources are determined by various academic and professional organizations that establish citation guidelines for their respective styles. Here's an overview of the main organizations:
- APA (American Psychological Association): Commonly used in the social sciences. Guidelines are published in the "Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association."
- MLA (Modern Language Association): Widely used in the humanities, especially in writing on language and literature. Guidelines are published in the "MLA Handbook."
- Chicago Manual of Style: Used in various disciplines, including history and business. Guidelines are published in "The Chicago Manual of Style."
These organizations periodically update their guidelines to reflect new types of sources and changes in publishing practices.
Citing a YouTube Video in APA Style
In APA format, the basic structure for citing a YouTube video is:
Creator’s Last Name, First Initial. (Year, Month Day). Title of video [Video]. YouTube. URL
Example:
Smith, J. (2023, March 15). Understanding Quantum Physics [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyz123
If the creator is an organization, list the organization name as the author.
Citing a YouTube Video in MLA Style
In MLA format, the basic structure for citing a YouTube video is:
“Title of Video.” YouTube, uploaded by Username, Day Month Year, URL.
Example:
“Understanding Quantum Physics.” YouTube, uploaded by John Smith, 15 Mar. 2023, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyz123.
If the creator is unknown, start with the title.
Citing a YouTube Video in Chicago Style
In Chicago format, the basic structure for citing a YouTube video is:
Creator’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Video.” YouTube video, length of video. Month Day, Year. URL.
Example:
Smith, John. “Understanding Quantum Physics.” YouTube video, 10:03. March 15, 2023. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyz123.
For footnotes, include the same information but adjust the punctuation slightly.
Additional Tips
- Finding Information: Look for the creator’s name below the video title, and the upload date and video length in the description.
- Accuracy: Ensure all information is accurate and the URL is working.
- Consistency: Stick to one citation style throughout your document.
Examples and Templates
APA Example:
Doe, J. (2024, January 20). The future of AI [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abc456
MLA Example:
“The Future of AI.” YouTube, uploaded by Jane Doe, 20 Jan. 2024, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abc456.
Chicago Example:
Doe, Jane. “The Future of AI.” YouTube video, 12:34. January 20, 2024. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abc456.
Quick Reference Table
| Citation Style | Format |
|---|---|
| APA | Creator’s Last Name, First Initial. (Year, Month Day). Title of video [Video]. YouTube. URL |
| MLA | "Title of Video." YouTube, uploaded by Username, Day Month Year, URL. |
| Chicago | Creator’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Video.” YouTube video, length of video. Month Day, Year. URL. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect Formats: Mixing up citation styles.
- Missing Information: Omitting the upload date or creator’s name.
- Incorrect URLs: Ensure the URL directs to the correct video.
Conclusion
Citing YouTube videos correctly helps maintain your work's credibility and respect intellectual property. Always double-check your citations for accuracy.
Additional Resources
- Purdue OWL: APA Formatting and Style Guide
- How do I cite YouTube videos? | MLA Style Center
- The Chicago Manual of Style Online
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I cite a video with no date? A: Use “n.d.” to indicate no date in APA and MLA styles.
Q: How do I cite a comment on a YouTube video? A: Include the commenter’s username, the comment title if any, the phrase “Comment on,” and the video's title.