how to cite survey apa

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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17-01-2025

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Surveys are a valuable research tool, providing insights into opinions, behaviors, and experiences. When incorporating survey data into your academic writing, accurate citation is crucial. This guide outlines how to cite surveys using the American Psychological Association (APA) style guide, covering various scenarios. Understanding how to properly cite your sources maintains academic integrity and avoids plagiarism.

Understanding APA Citation Basics

Before diving into survey-specific citations, let's review fundamental APA principles:

• Author-Date System: APA uses an author-date system. The author's last name and publication year are integrated into the text, with a full reference listed in the reference list at the end.
• Accuracy: Ensure all information—author names, publication dates, titles, etc.—is meticulously accurate. A small error can invalidate your citation.
• Consistency: Maintain consistent formatting throughout your paper. This includes spacing, capitalization, and punctuation.

Citing Surveys in APA: Different Scenarios

The way you cite a survey depends on how you accessed it. Here are common scenarios:

1. Citing a Published Survey Report

If the survey results are published in a report, journal article, or book, cite it like any other published work.

Example:

• In-text citation: (Smith & Jones, 2023)
• Reference list entry: Smith, J., & Jones, A. (2023). Title of Survey Report. Publisher.

2. Citing a Survey Conducted by an Organization

Many organizations conduct and publish their own surveys. Cite the organization as the author.

Example:

• In-text citation: (Pew Research Center, 2022)
• Reference list entry: Pew Research Center. (2022). Title of Survey. [URL if available]

3. Citing Unpublished Survey Data

If you accessed survey data directly from the researcher (e.g., through a data repository) and it hasn't been formally published, the citation changes.

Example:

• In-text citation: (Data from unpublished survey, Jane Doe, 2024, personal communication) Note: Personal communications are not included in the References list.

4. Citing Data from a Secondary Source

If you are citing survey data from a source that is not the original source, you must cite both the original source and the secondary source in your text. However, only the secondary source is included in your References list.

Example:

• In-text citation: (Smith, 2020, as cited in Jones, 2024)
• Reference list entry: Jones, A. (2024). Title of secondary source. Publisher.

Handling Specific Information within Your Text

How you incorporate survey data into your writing also influences your citation.

Example: Reporting Statistics

If you're reporting specific findings (e.g., percentages, averages), clearly indicate the source of those findings.

"The survey found that 75% of respondents agreed with the statement (Smith & Jones, 2023)."

Example: Describing Methodology

If you're describing the survey's methodology (e.g., sampling method, question types), you may not need an explicit in-text citation if it’s general knowledge or clearly comes from the source you already cited. However, if you include specific details about the methodology from a source, cite that source appropriately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect author information: Double-check spellings and order of authors.
• Missing publication date: If the date is unavailable, use "n.d." (no date).
• Inconsistent formatting: Follow APA formatting guidelines meticulously.
• Over-reliance on secondary sources: Whenever possible, cite the original survey data.
• Failing to cite survey data: This constitutes plagiarism.

Conclusion

Properly citing surveys in APA style is crucial for maintaining academic integrity. By understanding the different scenarios and following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure your work is both accurate and ethically sound. Remember to always consult the most up-to-date APA style manual for any evolving guidelines. Accurate citation shows that you're serious about your research and gives credit where it's due. Use available tools and resources to confirm your citations. Mastering this skill will enhance the credibility and impact of your research.