Use of Op Cit in APA PDF: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to academic writing, proper citation is crucial. One of the most common citation styles used in the United States is the APA (American Psychological Association) format. Within this style, the use of “op cit” is a term that might seem a bit confusing at first. In this article, we will delve into the details of using “op cit” in APA PDF documents, exploring its purpose, proper usage, and the benefits it brings to your research work.
Understanding Op Cit
“Op cit” is an abbreviation for “opus citatum,” which translates to “the work cited.” It is a shorthand way of referring to a previously cited source within your text. The primary purpose of using “op cit” is to save space and make your writing more concise. Instead of repeating the entire citation each time you refer to a source, you can simply use “op cit” followed by the page number.
For example, if you have cited a book by Smith in your text, and later on, you mention Smith’s work again, you can use “Smith (2020, p. 15) as discussed in the previous section” or simply “op cit, p. 15” to refer to the same source.
When to Use Op Cit in APA PDF
Using “op cit” in APA PDF documents is appropriate in certain situations. Here are some guidelines to help you determine when to use it:
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When you have already cited the source in your text.
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When you are referring to the same source multiple times within a paragraph or a short section.
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When you want to save space and make your writing more concise.
However, it is important to note that “op cit” should not be used in the reference list or in-text citations for the first time you mention a source. Always provide the full citation the first time you reference a source.
Proper Usage of Op Cit in APA PDF
When using “op cit” in APA PDF documents, there are a few rules to follow:
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Always use “op cit” followed by the page number. For example, “op cit, p. 15” or “op cit, para. 4” if referring to a paragraph.
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Do not use “op cit” in parentheses. Instead, place it directly after the author’s name or the title of the source.
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Use “op cit” only when referring to a source that has already been cited in your text.
Here’s an example of how to use “op cit” in APA PDF documents:
According to Smith (2020), the impact of climate change on coastal communities is significant (op cit, p. 15). Further research is needed to address these challenges (op cit, para. 4).
Benefits of Using Op Cit in APA PDF
Using “op cit” in APA PDF documents offers several benefits:
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Saves space and makes your writing more concise.
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Helps readers easily locate the source you are referencing.
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Ensures that your in-text citations are consistent and accurate.
Conclusion
Understanding the use of “op cit” in APA PDF documents is essential for effective academic writing. By following the guidelines and proper usage, you can enhance the clarity and conciseness of your research work. Remember to always provide the full citation the first time you mention a source and use “op cit” only when referring to a source that has already been cited. Happy writing!
| Op Cit Example | Full Citation |
|---|---|
| Smith (2020, p. 15) | Smith, J. (2020). The impact of climate change on coastal communities. Journal of Environmental Studies, 10(2), 15-25. |
| op cit, p. 15 | Smith, J. (2020). The impact of climate change on coastal communities. Journal of
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