How to Cite a Dataset in Bluebook (21st Edition)

This guide explains how to format a dataset citation in Bluebook (21st 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 Bluebook (21st Edition):

Template

Author, Title (Year), DOI or URL.

In-Text Citation Example

How the citation appears within the body of your paper:

In-text citation

See footnote 12 (superscript in text).

Reference List Entry Example

The full citation as it appears in your reference list:

Reference list entry

World Bank, World Development Indicators (2023), https://doi.org/10.57966/0bg5-6z29.

Step-by-Step Guide

1
Write the author or organization
Use the name of the person or organization that created the dataset. Abbreviate institutional names per Bluebook conventions.
2
Write the dataset title
Italicise the title in law review footnotes. Include the version number if applicable.
3
Add the year
Place the year in parentheses. If citing a specific version, include the version before the year parenthetical.
4
Include the URL or DOI
Provide the DOI as a URL or a direct link to the dataset. End with a period.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not treating the dataset as a nonperiodic source under Bluebook Rule 15.
Omitting the version number when multiple versions exist.
Placing the year outside the parenthetical.
Failing to include the repository or publisher information when relevant.
Not providing the DOI or URL for the dataset.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Bluebook handle dataset citations?

Bluebook does not have a specific rule for datasets. Cite them as nonperiodic materials under Rule 15, analogous to reports or studies.

Should I include the repository name?

If the repository is the publisher, include it. Otherwise, the URL will direct readers to the correct source.

Do I include a pincite for datasets?

If referencing specific data points, include as much identifying information as possible (e.g., table number, variable name) after the title.

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

Write the author or organization

Use the name of the person or organization that created the dataset. Abbreviate institutional names per Bluebook conventions.

Write the dataset title

Italicise the title in law review footnotes. Include the version number if applicable.

Add the year

Place the year in parentheses. If citing a specific version, include the version before the year parenthetical.

Include the URL or DOI

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