How to Cite a Dataset in AMA 11th Edition

This guide explains how to format a dataset citation in AMA 11th Edition. Follow the format template below, refer to the real example, and use the step-by-step instructions to build your citation correctly.

Format Template

The general pattern for citing a dataset in AMA 11th Edition:

Template

Author(s). Title. Repository. Year. doi:xxxxx

In-Text Citation Example

How the citation appears within the body of your paper:

In-text citation

superscript 1

Reference List Entry Example

The full citation as it appears in your reference list:

Reference list entry

Johnson MK, Rivera S. Global cancer incidence and mortality estimates, 2000--2025. ICPSR. 2025. doi:10.3886/ICPSR12345.v1

Step-by-Step Guide

1
List the authors
Write each author's surname followed by their initials (no periods between initials). Separate multiple authors with commas.
2
Write the dataset title
Write the title in sentence case. Do not italicise. End with a full stop.
3
Add the repository name
Write the name of the data repository (e.g., ICPSR, Dryad, Figshare). End with a full stop.
4
Include the year
Write the year the dataset was published or deposited. End with a full stop.
5
Add the DOI
Provide the DOI using the 'doi:' prefix (e.g., doi:10.3886/ICPSR12345.v1). Do not add a trailing full stop after the DOI.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Omitting the DOI when one is available — AMA requires DOIs for datasets.
Not naming the data repository as the source.
Using 'https://doi.org/' format instead of the 'doi:' prefix preferred by AMA.
Italicising the dataset title (AMA does not italicise dataset titles).
Including an access date when a DOI is present (not required if a DOI is provided).

Frequently Asked Questions

Does AMA italicise dataset titles?

No. AMA does not italicise dataset titles. Write the title in sentence case without special formatting.

Should I use 'doi:' or 'https://doi.org/' in AMA references?

AMA style uses the 'doi:' prefix (e.g., doi:10.1234/example). Do not use the URL form unless your publisher specifically requires it.

Do I need an access date for datasets with a DOI?

No. When a DOI is available, an access date is not required because the DOI provides a persistent link. Include an access date only for datasets without a DOI.

Information You Will Need

Before creating your citation, gather the following information from your dataset:

Author/Creator
Title
Version
Publisher/Repository
Year
DOI/URL

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Step-by-Step Guide

List the authors

Write each author's surname followed by their initials (no periods between initials). Separate multiple authors with commas.

Write the dataset title

Write the title in sentence case. Do not italicise. End with a full stop.

Add the repository name

Write the name of the data repository (e.g., ICPSR, Dryad, Figshare). End with a full stop.

Include the year

Write the year the dataset was published or deposited. End with a full stop.

Add the DOI

Provide the DOI using the 'doi:' prefix (e.g., doi:10.3886/ICPSR12345.v1). Do not add a trailing full stop after the DOI.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Omitting the DOI when one is available — AMA requires DOIs for datasets.

Not naming the data repository as the source.

Using 'https://doi.org/' format instead of the 'doi:' prefix preferred by AMA.

Italicising the dataset title (AMA does not italicise dataset titles).

Including an access date when a DOI is present (not required if a DOI is provided).