How to Cite an eBook in APA Format

Citing an eBook in APA format is similar to citing a print book, with the addition of a DOI or URL. The format does not require you to note the eBook platform or device unless the version differs significantly from the print edition.

Basic eBook Citation Format

The standard APA 7th edition format for an eBook citation is:

Reference list entry:

Author, A. A. (Year). Title of book. Publisher. https://doi.org/xxxxx or https://www.example.com

Parenthetical in-text citation: (Author, Year)

Narrative in-text citation: Author (Year)

In-Text Citation Examples

When you reference an eBook within your paper, you have two options:

• Parenthetical: The study of consciousness has evolved dramatically in recent decades (Damasio, 2021).
• Narrative: Damasio (2021) explored how the study of consciousness has evolved.

Common Variations

eBook with DOI

When a DOI is available, always prefer it over a URL.

Kahneman, D. (2011). Thinking, fast and slow. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. https://doi.org/10.1037/example

eBook without DOI or URL

If the eBook is widely available in print and digital formats and no DOI exists, treat it like a print book without adding a URL.

Orwell, G. (1949). Nineteen eighty-four. Secker & Warburg.

eBook from a Database or Online Library

If you accessed the eBook through a database, provide the DOI if available. Do not include the database name or URL unless the book is only available through that database.

Brown, B. (2018). Dare to lead. Random House. https://doi.org/10.1080/example

Tips for Citing eBooks

• Do not include Kindle, Nook, or other device names in the citation unless the content differs from the print version.
• Use the DOI when available. It is preferred over any URL.
• Do not include the database name (e.g., ProQuest, EBSCO) unless the work is exclusively available through that database.
• Include the publisher name even for eBooks, as you would for a print book.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to specify that I used an eBook version? No. APA 7th edition does not require you to note the format (Kindle, PDF, etc.) unless the content differs from the print version.

How do I cite page numbers in an eBook without fixed pages? Use chapter numbers, section headings, or paragraph numbers in your in-text citation instead of page numbers: (Author, Year, Chapter 3) or (Author, Year, para. 12).

What if the eBook is self-published? List the author as both author and publisher, or note the self-publishing platform as the publisher.