Citing YouTube Videos in APA 7: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
YouTube is a vast and ever-growing platform that has revolutionized the way we consume and share information. With millions of videos available, it can be challenging to cite them properly in academic papers. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cite a YouTube video in APA 7.
Understanding the Citation Style
Before we dive into the process, it’s essential to understand the citation style used in APA 7. The American Psychological Association (APA) style is widely used in academic writing, and it provides guidelines for citing various sources, including videos.
Step 1: Determine the Type of Source
To cite a YouTube video in APA 7, you need to determine the type of source it is. YouTube videos can be categorized into three main types:
- Primary sources: These are original sources that provide firsthand information, such as interviews, personal experiences, or original research.
- Secondary sources: These are sources that build upon existing research, such as books, articles, or documentaries.
- tertiary sources: These are sources that provide information on a topic, such as academic journals, websites, or videos.
Step 2: Identify the Author and Publication Date
To cite a YouTube video in APA 7, you need to identify the author and publication date. The author is usually the person who created the video, and the publication date is the date the video was uploaded.
- Author: The author is usually the person who created the video. You can find the author’s name in the video’s description or in the video’s metadata.
- Publication Date: The publication date is the date the video was uploaded. You can find the publication date in the video’s metadata or in the video’s description.
Step 3: Determine the Publication Type
To cite a YouTube video in APA 7, you need to determine the publication type. YouTube videos can be categorized into three main types:
- Video: This is the most common type of YouTube video, which is a self-contained video that can be watched on its own.
- Podcast: This is a type of YouTube video that is a pre-recorded audio or video that is broadcast on a specific platform.
- Live Stream: This is a type of YouTube video that is a live broadcast of an event or activity.
Step 4: Use the APA Citation Format
To cite a YouTube video in APA 7, you need to use the APA citation format. The APA citation format is as follows:
- Author: [Author’s Name]
- Publication Date: [Publication Date]
- Publication Type: [Publication Type]
- Title: [Title of the Video]
- URL: [URL of the Video]
Example:
- Author: John Smith
- Publication Date: March 12, 2020
- Publication Type: Video
- Title: "How to Make a Perfect Pizza"
- URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQw4w9WgXcQ
Step 5: Add the DOI (Digital Object Identifier)
To cite a YouTube video in APA 7, you need to add the DOI (Digital Object Identifier) to the URL. The DOI is a unique identifier assigned to a digital object, such as a video.
- DOI: [DOI of the Video]
Example:
- Author: John Smith
- Publication Date: March 12, 2020
- Publication Type: Video
- Title: "How to Make a Perfect Pizza"
- URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQw4w9WgXcQ& doi=10.1234/1234567890
- DOI: 10.1234/1234567890
Step 6: Use the APA Publication Information
To cite a YouTube video in APA 7, you need to use the APA publication information. The APA publication information includes the author’s name, publication date, publication type, title, and URL.
- Author: John Smith
- Publication Date: March 12, 2020
- Publication Type: Video
- Title: "How to Make a Perfect Pizza"
- URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQw4w9WgXcQ
Conclusion
Citing YouTube videos in APA 7 can be a bit challenging, but with the right steps and guidelines, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and complete. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily cite YouTube videos in APA 7 and ensure that your citations are accurate and complete.
References
- APA Publication Style Guide (2020). Publication style guide. American Psychological Association.
- APA Citation Style (2020). APA citation style. American Psychological Association.
- YouTube Help Center (n.d.). How to cite a YouTube video. YouTube.