How to Cite a Social Media Post in Turabian (9th Edition)

This guide explains how to format a social media post citation in Turabian (9th 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 social media post in Turabian (9th Edition):

Template

Note: First Last (@handle), "Content up to 20 words," Platform, Month Day, Year, URL. Bibliography: Social media posts are typically cited only in notes, not in the bibliography.

In-Text Citation Example

How the citation appears within the body of your paper:

In-text citation

1. Joseph R. Biden (@POTUS), "Today we are announcing new investments in clean energy that will create thousands of good-paying jobs," X, January 15, 2024, https://x.com/POTUS/status/1234567890.

Reference List Entry Example

The full citation as it appears in your reference list:

Reference list entry

Social media posts are typically cited only in notes in Turabian style.

Step-by-Step Guide

1
Identify the author
Use the real name followed by the handle in parentheses.
2
Write the post content
Place the first 20 words in quotation marks.
3
Add the platform and date
Write the platform name and the full date of the post.
4
Include the URL
Provide the direct URL to the specific post.
5
Note on bibliography
Turabian (following Chicago) recommends citing social media posts only in notes, not in the bibliography.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Including social media posts in the bibliography (they are typically notes-only).
Omitting the handle/username.
Not placing the post content in quotation marks.
Using more than the first 20 words of the post.
Forgetting the platform name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do social media posts go in the Turabian bibliography?

Generally no. Turabian (following Chicago) recommends citing social media posts only in notes. If a post is central to your argument, you may include it in the bibliography.

How do I shorten a long post?

Use the first 20 words of the post as the title. End with an ellipsis if cutting off mid-sentence.

What if only a handle is known?

Use the handle as the author: @POTUS, followed by the post content and other details.

Information You Will Need

Before creating your citation, gather the following information from your social media post:

Author/Username
Content/Title
Platform
Date
URL

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Step-by-Step Guide

Identify the author

Use the real name followed by the handle in parentheses.

Write the post content

Place the first 20 words in quotation marks.

Add the platform and date

Write the platform name and the full date of the post.

Include the URL

Provide the direct URL to the specific post.

Note on bibliography

Turabian (following Chicago) recommends citing social media posts only in notes, not in the bibliography.