Skip to Main Content
Welcome to SMSU's McFarland Library

Social Work: Citing in APA format

Citing Sources Shortcut

A series of four citation buttons from library databases, three featuring a closed quotation mark and one checked check box

OneSearch as well as most of the databases provides shortcuts to citations. When you identify a book or article you'll likely use in your paper or speech, look for a shortcut to the citation for that resource.  It's usually there...and it can be a great time saver! Note that the citations are not always 100% correct, but they are a good starting point and have the basic information you need to create a citation. Usually the errors have to do with capitalization, italics/underlining, or punctuation.  Double-check them!

Checking Citations

To check on the formatting, take advantage of the OWL. Purdue's site is exceptional and easy to maneuver.

Creating Citiations

If you're starting a citation from scratch, use a tool such as Knight Cite to assist you. Be sure to select the APA option on the lefthand side (it defaults to MLA).

Writing Center

Writing Center logo

Take advantage of SMSU's Writing Center. It's housed on the 5th floor of the Library, but is also accessible online! This is a free service for SMSU students. Click the logo for more information.