FAQ: How do I cite a primary source in APA style?

APA

The way you cite a primary source in APA depends on what type of source it is. For artwork, film, books, etc. you will follow the formats shown on the APA Style's Reference Examples This link opens in a new window pages. 

For archival documents and collections, see the Archival Documents and Collections This link opens in a new window page to learn how to cite personal letters, historical sources, unpublished papers, and more.

More Information

• Citing Your Sources (Shapiro Library)

Further Help

This information is intended to be a guideline, not expert advice. Please be sure to speak to your professor about the appropriate way to cite a primary source in your class assignments and projects.

Campus Students

To access academic support, visit your Brightspace course and select “Tutoring and Mentoring” from the Academic Support pulldown menu.

Online Students

To access help with citation and more, visit Academic Support via modules in Brightspace:

• The Complete Guide to Using Academic Support via Brightspace This link opens in a new window
• Accessing Writing STEM Help This link opens in a new window