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How to Cite a YouTube Video

Benjamin Crozat
Benjamin Crozat June 2, 2024

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:

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

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

Conclusion

Citing YouTube videos correctly helps maintain your work's credibility and respect intellectual property. Always double-check your citations for accuracy.

Additional Resources

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.