Citing social media content, such as a Facebook page, in academic writing requires adherence to specific style guidelines. The American Psychological Association (APA) provides a format for acknowledging these sources. Typically, a citation includes the name of the page or author, date of posting, title or a brief description of the content, and the URL. For example, a citation might appear as: National Geographic. (Ongoing). Facebook page. Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/NationalGeographic/. This example demonstrates the necessary elements for proper attribution.
Proper citation of online sources maintains academic integrity, giving credit to the content creator and allowing readers to verify the information. The APA style for social media citations has evolved to address the increasing presence of these platforms in research and scholarship. Utilizing a consistent format prevents plagiarism and enhances the credibility of academic work. Correctly referencing sources contributes to a strong research foundation.
