Citing a specific portion of a larger work, such as an individual chapter within an edited book, requires a distinct citation format under the American Psychological Association (APA) style guidelines. This format ensures accurate attribution to both the author of the specific chapter and the editor(s) of the complete book. The citation structure typically includes the chapter author’s name, year of publication, chapter title, book editor(s), book title, page range of the chapter within the book, and the book’s publisher. For instance, consider a chapter titled “Cognitive Development” by Jean Piaget within a book edited by Ursula Bellugi-Klima, titled “The Neuropsychology of Development.” A proper citation would include Piaget’s name, the year of publication, the chapter title, the editor’s name, the book title, the chapter’s page range, and the publisher’s information.
Adhering to the established citation format is crucial for several reasons. It provides clear and precise credit to the intellectual contributions of the chapter author, preventing plagiarism and promoting academic integrity. Additionally, it allows readers to easily locate the specific source material referenced, facilitating further research and exploration of the topic. The consistent application of citation standards ensures transparency and accountability within scholarly discourse. The APA style, widely adopted across various disciplines, provides a standardized framework for acknowledging sources, fostering consistency and clarity in academic writing.
