How to Cite a Dataset in APSA Style Manual

This guide explains how to format a dataset citation in APSA Style Manual. 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 APSA Style Manual:

Template

Author or Organization. Year. *Title of Dataset*. Version. Distributor/Repository. URL or DOI.

In-Text Citation Example

How the citation appears within the body of your paper:

In-text citation

(World Bank 2023)

Reference List Entry Example

The full citation as it appears in your reference list:

Reference list entry

World Bank. 2023. *World Development Indicators*. The World Bank Group. https://doi.org/10.57966/0bg5-6z29.

Step-by-Step Guide

1
Identify the creator
Use the full name of the person or organization that created the dataset. For individuals, use Last, First format.
2
Add the year
Write the year of publication or last update, followed by a period.
3
Write the dataset title
Italicize the title using headline-style capitalization. Include the version number if applicable.
4
Add the distributor
Name the repository or organization that distributes the dataset.
5
Include the DOI or URL
Provide the DOI as a full URL or a direct link to the dataset. End with a period.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using initials instead of full first names for individual creators.
Not italicizing the dataset title.
Omitting the distributor or repository name.
Forgetting to include the DOI or URL.
Placing a comma between the author and year in the in-text citation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does APSA cite datasets?

APSA treats datasets similarly to reports or stand-alone publications. Italicize the title, include the distributor, and provide a DOI or URL.

Should I include a version number?

Yes. If the dataset has been released in multiple versions, include the version number after the title for reproducibility.

What if the dataset is from a government agency?

Use the agency name as the author. APSA's conventions for government sources apply: use the full agency name and include publication details.

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

Identify the creator

Use the full name of the person or organization that created the dataset. For individuals, use Last, First format.

Add the year

Write the year of publication or last update, followed by a period.

Write the dataset title

Italicize the title using headline-style capitalization. Include the version number if applicable.

Add the distributor

Name the repository or organization that distributes the dataset.

Include the DOI or URL

Provide the DOI as a full URL or a direct link to the dataset. End with a period.