FAQ: Where can I find the information I need to create a citation for a website or blog?

Locating Information For a Webpage or Blog Post Citation

To cite a webpage or blog post correctly, you may need to explore the website to find the information. Keep in mind that the location of this information can vary by type of website/blog and sometimes information is missing altogether. If you need more guidance on what to include in your citation, refer to the style guide required for your course. Here is a list of the information you need for a webpage or blog post citation and where to find it.

Note: If you are not sure whether the source you are using is a webpage, blog, or something else, feel free to ask the library or your instructor for help.

For a Webpage or Blog post:

1. Title of Webpage or Title of Blog Post: Often found at the top of the page below the website's banner in the largest font on the page. 
2. Website Name or Blog Name: Often found in the upper left corner or center of the page above title or in the banner of the website. If not clear, look for the "About Us' page or look at copyright information which is usually located at the bottom of the page. It may be a part of the URL address as well. 
3. Author:  Often listed near the title, or before or after the content on the page. This information may be missing.
4. Date: Often listed near the title, or before or after the content on the page.  Use the "last updated" or "Posted" date over the website's overall copyright date. This information may be missing.
5. URL: Found in the address bar at the top of your browser window. A blog post usually has the word blog in the URL. 

Example of a Blog Post:

1. Title of Blog Post: Don't Let Other People Ruin Your Day
2. Blog Name: WebMD Expert Blog
3. Author: Seth J. Gillihan
4. Date: July 14, 2021
5. URL: https://blogs.webmd.com/mental-health/20210714/dont-let-other-people-ruin-your-day

More Information

Citing Your Sources Guide (Shapiro Library)

APA Style Guide (Shapiro Library)

MLA Style Guide (Shapiro Library)

Chicago Style Guide (Shapiro Library)

Disclaimer

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 sources in your class assignments and projects.