Newspapers remain a trusted source for current events, analysis, and investigative reporting, and citing them correctly in APA style lends credibility to your work. This guide shows how to format newspaper article citations, capture essential details, and integrate them smoothly into your writing.
Use the overview table below to compare core elements across different newspaper citation scenarios, making it easier to choose the right format at a glance.
| Element | Print Newspaper with URL | Online-Only Newspaper Article | Newspaper Article from Database |
|---|---|---|---|
| Author | Last name, Initials. | Last name, Initials. | Last name, Initials. |
| Publication Year | (Year, Month Day) | (Year, Month Day) | (Year, Month Day) |
| Article Title | Sentence case, period | Sentence case, period | Sentence case, period |
| Newspaper Title | Title case, italicized, period | Title case, italicized, period | Title of periodical, italicized, comma |
| URL or Database | Direct URL, no link prefix | Direct URL, https:// | Database name, DOI or stable URL |
Basics of Newspaper Article Citation in APA
APA citations for newspaper articles prioritize author, date, title, and source so readers can locate the exact version you used. Begin with the author’s last name and initials, followed by the publication date in parentheses right after the author element.
Place the article title in sentence case, ending with a period, then italicize the newspaper name using title case and add a comma if it is an online-only source. For print editions, simply include the newspaper name in title case and italics, followed by the page numbers when available.
Print Newspaper Citation Details
Print citations work well when you are referencing a physical copy or a scanned PDF with stable page numbers. Capture the author, year, article title, newspaper name in italics, and the full page range to help readers locate the exact location of your reference.
When no DOI or database information is involved, the format is streamlined, focusing only on the essentials. This keeps the citation clean and ensures that historical or archival newspaper references remain clearly identifiable without unnecessary clutter.
Online Newspaper and Digital Editions
Digital editions and online-only sources require a direct, stable URL or a permalink so others can follow your source accurately. For articles published on the newspaper’s website, include the URL without labeling it as a hyperlink, maintaining a neutral, professional tone.
If the article moves behind a paywall but you accessed it through a library or institution, you may optionally include the name of the database. However, APA typically omits database names in favor of a direct URL that any reader can use when access is available.
Newspaper Articles from Databases
Articles retrieved from academic or news databases often include additional metadata such as database name and DOIs. In these cases, list the author, date, article title, newspaper title, and then the database or DOI, ensuring that the retrieval path remains transparent.
When a DOI is available, it takes priority over a URL because it provides a persistent link that will not change over time. Including the DOI, when possible, strengthens the reliability and future accessibility of your citation.
Refining Your Newspaper Citation Practice
Mastering newspaper citations in APA improves the precision of your research and demonstrates respect for intellectual property. Consistent formatting, attention to stable links, and clear attribution build trust with your audience.
- Record author name, publication date, and article title as soon as you access the source.
- Italicize the newspaper name and use sentence case for article titles.
- Prefer a direct URL or DOI to help readers verify your reference easily.
- Use (n.d.) for undated online articles and page indicators for print sources.
- Double-check punctuation and italics, ensuring every citation matches APA guidelines.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I cite a newspaper article with no author in APA?
Start with the article title in sentence case, followed by the year in parentheses, the italicized newspaper name, and the URL or page range if applicable.
What should I do when citing a newspaper article without a publication date?
Use (n.d.) in place of the year to indicate no date, then continue with the author, article title, newspaper name, and URL or page details.
How do I format page numbers for a printed newspaper article in APA?
Include the page range or the abbreviation p. or pp. after the newspaper name, helping readers locate the exact position of the article in the publication.
Is it necessary to include the database name when citing from a news database?
Generally, no, unless your style guide specifically requests it; instead, provide a direct, stable URL or DOI so readers can access the source themselves.