Citing a Netflix Show in APA Style: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Netflix has become a popular platform for streaming various TV shows and movies. With its vast library of content, it’s essential to properly cite the sources of information to avoid plagiarism and maintain academic integrity. In this article, we will guide you through the process of citing a Netflix show in APA style.
Understanding the Citation Style
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand the citation style used in APA. The American Psychological Association (APA) style is commonly used in academic writing, including research papers, essays, and theses. In APA, sources are cited using a specific format that includes the author’s name, publication date, title of the source, publication information, and page numbers (if applicable).
Step 1: Determine the Type of Source
Netflix shows are primarily online content, so the citation style will be different from traditional print sources. Here are the types of sources you need to consider:
- Documentaries: Netflix documentaries are typically cited as "Netflix documentary" or "documentary series" followed by the title of the documentary.
- TV Shows: Netflix TV shows are cited as "Netflix original series" or "TV series" followed by the title of the show.
- Movies: Netflix movies are cited as "Netflix original film" or "movie" followed by the title of the movie.
Step 2: Identify the Author
In the case of Netflix shows, the author is often the creator or executive producer of the show. Here are some common sources of information:
- Creator: The creator of the show is usually the primary author.
- Executive Producer: The executive producer is often listed as the co-author or co-creator.
- Producer: The producer is listed as the co-author or co-creator.
Step 3: Determine the Publication Date
The publication date is crucial in APA citation style. Here are some guidelines:
- Documentaries: The publication date is usually the date of release.
- TV Shows: The publication date is usually the date of release or the date the show was first broadcast.
- Movies: The publication date is usually the date of release.
Step 4: Format the Citation
Here is an example of a citation for a Netflix show in APA style:
Netflix Documentary
- Title: The Last Ship (2014)
- Author: Eric Bress and Aaron Ehasz
- Publication Date: 2014
- Publication Information: Netflix, 2014
- Page Numbers: (Available online at [insert URL])
TV Show
- Title: Narcos (2015)
- Author: Chris Brancato, Eric Kripke, and Michael B. Jordan
- Publication Date: 2015
- Publication Information: Netflix, 2015
- Page Numbers: (Available online at [insert URL])
Movie
- Title: Orange is the New Black (2013)
- Author: Jenji Kohan
- Publication Date: 2013
- Publication Information: Netflix, 2013
- Page Numbers: (Available online at [insert URL])
Step 5: Include Additional Information
In addition to the author, publication date, and publication information, you may also want to include the following:
- Title of the show: This is the title of the show, including the season and episode numbers (if applicable).
- Release year: This is the year the show was released.
- Streaming platform: This is the platform where the show was released (e.g., Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu).
Example Citation
Here is an example of a citation for a Netflix show in APA style:
The Last Ship
- Title: The Last Ship (2014)
- Author: Eric Bress and Aaron Ehasz
- Publication Date: 2014
- Publication Information: Netflix, 2014
- Page Numbers: (Available online at [insert URL])
- Title of the show: The Last Ship (Season 1, Episode 1)
- Release year: 2014
- Streaming platform: Netflix
Conclusion
Citing a Netflix show in APA style requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the citation style. By following these steps and guidelines, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and reliable. Remember to always check the publication date and page numbers, and to include additional information as necessary.
References
- Netflix. (2014). The Last Ship. Retrieved from https://www.netflix.com/show/The-Last-Ship
- Netflix. (2015). Narcos. Retrieved from https://www.netflix.com/show/Narcos
- Netflix. (2013). Orange is the New Black. Retrieved from https://www.netflix.com/show/Orange-is-the-New-Black
Note: The references provided are just examples and may not be actual sources. Always verify the accuracy of the information and consult with a librarian or academic advisor if necessary.