APA secondary source citation: how to cite "as cited in"
Quick answer
A secondary source is a work you read that cites another work. In APA 7, name the original author, then write "as cited in" and the work you actually read: (Rivera, 2010, as cited in Lopez, 2023). In the reference list, include only the work you read, Lopez 2023.
What is a secondary source?
Imagine Lopez (2023) cites a study by Rivera (2010), and you want to use that idea. You did not read Rivera; you read Lopez. Lopez is the secondary source and Rivera the original.
How do I write it in the text?
- Parenthetical: Rooftop plots doubled (Rivera, 2010, as cited in Lopez, 2023).
- Narrative: Rivera (2010, as cited in Lopez, 2023) found that rooftop plots doubled.
For a direct quote, add the page from the work you read: (Rivera, 2010, as cited in Lopez, 2023, p. 14).
What goes in the reference list?
Only the work you read:
Lopez, L. (2023). Urban gardens and city life. Example Press.Rivera does not appear, because you did not read that work.
When should I avoid secondary sources?
Whenever you can reach the original. Reading it gives you context and lowers the risk of repeating a misreading. Many instructors limit secondary citations.
Checklist
- You tried to find the original
- "as cited in" used in the text
- Only the secondary source in references
- Page number from the work you read
Frequently asked questions
How do you cite a source within a source?
Write the original idea with the "as cited in" formula: (Rivera, 2010, as cited in Lopez, 2023). In the reference list, give an entry only for Lopez, the work you consulted.
When should I use a secondary source?
Only when the original is out of print, in a language you cannot access or otherwise unavailable. If you can read the original, do so and cite it directly; that avoids repeating someone else's interpretation.
Does the secondary source go in the reference list?
Yes, and only the secondary source. The original work you mention through it is not listed, because you did not read it. Give the full entry for the work you actually consulted, with its own author and year.