citation powerpoint presentation

Home / Guides / Citation Guides / How to Cite Sources / How to Cite a PowerPoint Presentation in APA, MLA or Chicago

How to Cite a PowerPoint Presentation in APA, MLA or Chicago

Let’s be honest: Sometimes the best information for a paper comes straight from a professor’s PowerPoint presentation. But did you know that source needs to be cited?

Whether you’re making use of your instructor’s lecture materials or pulling information from a Powerpoint found online, you need to make sure to cite your sources if you use information from it in a project or paper.

Here’s a run -t hrough of everything this page includes:  

• Cite a PowerPoint Presentation in MLA format
• Cite a PowerPoint Presentation in APA format
• Cite a PowerPoint Presentation in Chicago Style

By now, you’re probably familiar with how to cite websites, books or journal articles, but not as knowledgeable about how to cite a Powerpoint presentation. In actuality, citing PowerPoint presentations aren’t all that different from citing written materials, so don’t let yourself be phased! It’s not too hard and compiling an MLA works cited or APA reference page doesn’t take too long—each one should take just a few minutes to create.

To help you with the process, we’ve put together a handy guide demonstrating how to cite a PowerPoint presentation in three commonly used citation styles: MLA, APA and Chicago.

Let’s start by looking for basic information you’ll need for the citation.

Information you may need to cite a PowerPoint Presentation:

• Author or authors of the presentation
• Presentation title
• Date of publication/presentation
• Place of publication/where the presentation was given
• URL (if used to locate the presentation)

Cite a PowerPoint Presentation in MLA format:

MLA format citation structure:

Author Last Name, First Name. Presentation Title. Month Year, URL. PowerPoint Presentation.

Example citation :

Park, Lisa. Effective Working Teams . Jan. 2011, https://www.company.meetings/teams. PowerPoint Presentation.

In-text citation structure:

(Last Name)

Example in-text citation:

Cite a PowerPoint Presentation in APA format:  

APA reference structure:

Author or Presenter Last Name, Middle Initial. First Initial. (Date of publication). Title of presentation [PowerPoint presentation]. Conference Name, Location. URL

Example reference:

Park, L. (2011, March 24-28). Effective working teams [PowerPoint presentation]. Regional Dairy Workers National Conference, New York, NY, United States. https://www.company.meetings/teams

Cite a PowerPoint Presentation in Chicago Style:

Chicago citation structure:

Author Last Name, First Name. “Presentation Title.” Lecture, Location of Lecture, Month Day, Year.

Example citation:

Park, Lisa. “Effective Working Teams.” Lecture, The Plaza Hotel, New York, NY, January 11, 2011.

Troubleshooting

Solution #1: how to cite a powerpoint that has multiple authors..

For a presentation with multiple authors, list the authors alphabetically by last name for the full reference citation. The citation will list each author by Last Name, First Initial.

If the PowerPoint has just two authors, separate them with a comma and an ampersand (&). If the PowerPoint has more than two authors, list the authors separated by commas.

Reference examples:

Felner, D., & Nguy, A. (2021 April 10-12). The history of Claymation [Slideshow]. Animation Now, Los Angeles, CA, United States.

Felner, D., Nguy, A., Becham, G. (2021 April 10-12). The history of Claymation [Slideshow]. Animation Now, Los Angeles, CA, United States.

For an in-text citation for two authors, give both surnames separated by an ampersand (&) followed by a comma and the year of publication or presentation.

For an in-text citation for three or more authors, list the first author’s surname followed by “et al.” followed by a comma and the year of publication or presentation.

In-text citation examples:

(Felner & Nguy, 2021)

(Felner et al., 2021)

For a PowerPoint with two presenters or authors, include both names in the full works-cited citation. The names need to be written as follows: First presenter’s Last Name, First Name, and then the second presenter’s First Name and Last Name.

For an in-text citation, simply list the surnames of both presenters.

In-text citation example:

(Nguy and Felner)

Work-cited entry example:

Nguy, Anna and Dominic Felner. The History of Claymation. Apr. 2021. PowerPoint Presentation.

For a PowerPoint with three or more presenters, only list one presenter’s name followed by a comma and “et al.”

For an in-text citation for three or more authors or presenters , list the surname given in the full works-cited citation followed by “et al.”

(Nguy et al.)

Nguy, Anna et al. The History of Claymation. Apr. 2021. PowerPoint Presentation.

Solution #2 How to cite a slideshow that wasn’t made with PowerPoint

If making a full works-cited citation for a slideshow that was made with another program other than PowerPoint, include the medium in brackets instead of PowerPoint.

If the presentation is not in PowerPoint, and you can’t determine what software was used, include the word “slideshow” in brackets in place of PowerPoint.

Nguy, A. (2021 April 10-12). The history of Claymation [Prezi presentation]. Animation Now, Los Angeles, CA, United States.

Nguy, A. (2021 April 10-12). The history of Claymation [Slideshow]. Animation Now, Los Angeles, CA, United States.

The in-text citation will be formatted like any other APA in-text citation (author last name, year).

(Nguy, 2021)

At the end of your full works-cited citation, include the program the slideshow was made with, formatted as:  ______ Presentation.

If you are uncertain of the program used, end your citation with “slideshow” followed by a period. Nguy, Anna. The history of Claymation. Apr. 2021. Prezi Presentation. Nguy, Anna. The history of Claymation . Apr. 2021. Slideshow.

The in-text citation will be formatted like any other MLA in-text citation (author last name).

Hello all paper writers! Take a moment to try our spell checker , or refresh your knowledge on English basics with our EasyBib grammar guides ! Discover a determiner definition , learn what is an adverb , review an interjection list , and more.   

Updated April 26, 2021.

Citation Guides

• Annotated Bibliography
• Block Quotes
• Citation Examples
• et al Usage
• In-text Citations
• Page Numbers
• Reference Page
• Sample Paper
• APA 7 Updates
• View APA Guide
• Bibliography
• Works Cited
• MLA 8 Updates
• View MLA Guide

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

To cite PowerPoint presentation slides, include the author name, year/date of presentation, the title, the source description, the website and/or university name, and the URL where the source can be found.

If the PowerPoint presentation is not accessible to the reader, cite the slides as personal communication.

If you want to cite a PowerPoint in MLA or APA style, you need to have basic information including the name of the author(s), title of the presentation, date and place of publication, and URL. For in-text citations, you need to include only the author name(s) in MLA style and author name(s) and year in APA style.  

APA in-text citations

(Author Surname, publication year)

(Dhanalakshmi, 2004)

MLA in-text citations

(Author Surname)

(Dhanalakshmi)

Citation Basics

Harvard Referencing

Plagiarism Basics

Plagiarism Checker

Upload a paper to check for plagiarism against billions of sources and get advanced writing suggestions for clarity and style.

Get Started

• General Education Courses
• School of Business
• School of Design
• School of Education
• School of Health Sciences
• School of Justice Studies
• School of Nursing
• School of Technology
• CBE Student Guide
• Online Library
• Ask a Librarian
• Learning Express Library
• Interlibrary Loan Request Form
• Library Staff
• Databases A-to-Z
• Articles by Subject
• Discovery Search
• Publication Finder
• Video Databases
• NoodleTools
• Library Guides
• Course Guides
• Writing Lab
• Rasmussen Technical Support (PSC)
• Copyright Toolkit
• Faculty Toolkit
• Suggest a Purchase
• Refer a Student Tutor
• Live Lecture/Peer Tutor Scheduler
• Faculty Interlibrary Loan Request Form
• Professional Development Databases
• Publishing Guide
• Professional Development Guides (AAOPD)
• Rasmussen University
• Library and Learning Services Guides

APA 7th Edition Guide

• Citing Sources in PowerPoint Presentations
• APA Paper Basics
• Preventing Plagiarism
• Academic Integrity Video
• Setting Up Your Paper
• In-Text Citations
• eTextbooks and Course Materials
• Images & Audiovisual Media
• Legal Resources
• Personal Communications & Secondary Sources
• Missing Reference Information
• Annotated Bibliographies
• Finding Help
• Additional Resources from the APA

Citing Sources in PowerPoint Slides

• PowerPoint - In-text Citations
• PowerPoint - References List

Note:  APA does not have specific rules about the format of PowerPoint slides.  Rasmussen University does have recommended guidelines outlined below and in the attached PPT presentation.

PowerPoint slides  may   need citations, depending on what type of information is included on the slide.

If the text on a slide is a quote (someone else's words, verbatim) or someone else's ideas in the presenter's own words, then a citation is needed.

If the text placed on a slide is simply a word or phrase that represents a topic that the presenter will be discussing in greater detail, then a citation is not needed.

The table below includes two PowerPoint slides (left side). The column on the right tells whether or not the information would need to be cited and why.

Speaker Notes:  Some assignments require text in the Speaker Notes area of the PowerPoint slide. If information from a source is quoted, summarized, or paraphrased in that area, an in-text citation and reference will likely be required. Ask your instructor for clarification.

• Presentations & APA Citation Style at Rasmussen University Great resource to share with students if they are having struggles with APA in PPTs.

PowerPoint Slides - References

There are two ways to include the Reference list in your presentation:

• Coordinating reference lists are typically handed out during or after the presentation either in print if presenting in person, or electronically if presenting online. This is the preferred method of including a Reference list of the sources cited in your slide deck.
• Include a Reference list in the last slide of the presentation. This is an acceptable method if there are not many resources to include. Avoid adding so many resources to the list that the type is not legible to those attending the presentation

Creating the Reference List Slide

• If you use outside sources in your presentation (noted in your in-text citations), you must cite those sources on a References page/slide.
• Your Reference page can be created in NoodleTools, exported to Microsoft Word, and distributed or submitted with your slides to those who attend your presentation. Ask your instructor if they would like a Reference slide as the last slide of your presentation. Note that you may need more than one slide depending on how many references are needed.

See the slide deck below for more information.

• << Previous: Missing Reference Information
• Next: Annotated Bibliographies >>
• Last Updated: Apr 5, 2024 12:21 PM
• URL: https://guides.rasmussen.edu/apa

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

MLA PowerPoint Presentation

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

Select the MLA PowerPoint Presentation above to download slides that provide a detailed review of the MLA citation style.

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game New
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• College University and Postgraduate
• Academic Writing

How to Cite a PowerPoint Presentation

Last Updated: January 16, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Jennifer Mueller is a wikiHow Content Creator. She specializes in reviewing, fact-checking, and evaluating wikiHow's content to ensure thoroughness and accuracy. Jennifer holds a JD from Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 2006. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 65,993 times. Learn more...

PowerPoint presentations often convey a lot of information in a brief format that's easy to understand. For this reason, they also make excellent sources for a research paper — especially if you're writing on a complex, cutting-edge topic. But how should you cite your source? The elements included in your citation are generally the same as those you would use for any other lecture or presentation. Your specific format will vary, though, depending on whether you're using the Modern Language Association (MLA), American Psychological Association (APA), or Chicago citation style.

• Example: Kalyanaraman, Ananth.

• Example: Kalyanaraman, Ananth. "CPT S 317: Automata and Formal Languages."

• Example: Kalyanaraman, Ananth. "CPT S 317: Automata and Formal Languages." 2017. School of EECS, Washington State University, Pullman.

• Example: Kalyanaraman, Ananth. "CPT S 317: Automata and Formal Languages." 2017. School of EECS, Washington State University, Pullman. Microsoft PowerPoint presentation.

• Example: Kalyanaraman, Ananth. "CPT S 317: Automata and Formal Languages." 2017. School of EECS, Washington State University, Pullman. Microsoft PowerPoint presentation. eecs.wsu.edu/~ananth/CptS317/Lectures/Course.pdf.

• For example, you might write: One of the objectives of the course is to introduce automata theory and the theory of computation (Kalyanaraman slide 3).

• The basic format for a personal communication in-text citation is as follows: (A. Lastname, personal communication, Month day, year).

• Example: Braun, M.

• Example: Braun, M. (2020).

• Example: Braun, M. (2020). Diseases of the nervous system [PowerPoint slides].

• Example: Braun, M. (2020). Diseases of the nervous system [PowerPoint slides]. http://medsci.indiana.edu/c602web/602/c602web/opt/braun/Diseases_NervousSystem.pdf

• For example, you might write: A subdural hemorrhage is a rotational injury that causes slow bleeding (Braun, 2020).
• If you use the presenter's name in the text of your paper, add a parenthetical immediately after the name with the year for the presentation. For example, you might write: Braun (2020) differentiates between different types of brain hemorrhages, which require different treatment.
• If you quote directly from the presentation, add the slide number after the year. For example, you might write: According to Braun (2020, slide 3), the "accumulation of junk" in the central nervous system can lead to problems.

• Example: Damodaran, Aswath.

• Example: Damodaran, Aswath. "Intrinsic Valuation."

• Example: Damodaran, Aswath. "Intrinsic Valuation." PowerPoint presentation, Equity Instruments, NYU Stern School of Business, New York, NY, January 2020.

• Example: Damodaran, Aswath. "Intrinsic Valuation." PowerPoint presentation, Equity Instruments, NYU Stern School of Business, New York, NY, January 2020. http://people.stern.nyu.edu/adamodar/pdfiles/eqnotes/valpacket1spr20.pdf.

• Example: Aswath Damodaran, "Intrinsic Valuation," (PowerPoint presentation, Equity Instruments, NYU Stern School of Business, New York, NY, January 2020), http://people.stern.nyu.edu/adamodar/pdfiles/eqnotes/valpacket1spr20.pdf.
• After the first footnote, use a shortened format for subsequent footnotes with the last name of the presenter and the title of the presentation. For example:

Community Q&A

• If the slides come from a classroom website, company intranet, or learning management system (such as Canvas or Blackboard), use the URL only if you're writing for an audience that would have access to that system. [18] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• This article covers how to cite a PowerPoint presentation using the MLA 8th edition (2016), the APA 7th edition (2019), and the Chicago Manual of Style 17th edition (2017). Consult your instructor or editor to make sure you're using the right edition for your citations. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://style.mla.org/citing_slides/
• ↑ https://research.moreheadstate.edu/c.php?g=610039&p=4234940
• ↑ https://libguides.capilanou.ca/mla/classnotes
• ↑ https://writeanswers.royalroads.ca/faq/199089
• ↑ https://guides.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/APA/lecture
• ↑ https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/references/examples/powerpoint-references
• ↑ https://libguides.up.edu/chicago/other#s-lg-box-wrapper-28673142
• ↑ https://library.ulethbridge.ca/chicagostyle/other/lecture
• ↑ https://libguides.up.edu/chicago/other

About This Article

To cite a PowerPoint presentation in MLA, use footnotes or endnotes to cite your sources. Then in the footnote, list the author’s last name followed by a comma then their first name. Then write the title of the lecture in quotes followed by the venue, the city it was held in, and the abbreviated date you accessed the work. You should put a period after each item. For instance, you might write, “Smith, John. ‘Sensitivity and Social Media.’ Today's Social Networks. Thomson Auditorium. Hamilton. Jan. 23, 2016. Keynote address.” To learn how to cite PowerPoint presentations in APA style, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Saadieqah Sage

May 29, 2019

Did this article help you?

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• Writing Tips

How to Cite a PowerPoint in APA

• 5-minute read
• 24th November 2023

If you want to use information from a PowerPoint presentation in your essay, you’ll need to cite it properly to get the marks you deserve . In this post, we’ll show you how to do that in line with the referencing system of the American Psychological Association (APA), using the 7th edition.

When to Cite the PowerPoint

First, a word of caution: If the information you want to cite from the PowerPoint originally comes from another source – if, for example, it is a quote from a book – you need to follow the guidance for citing that source type .

If the PowerPoint itself is the original source of the information you want to cite, you need to follow the guidance in this post.

Where to Cite the PowerPoint

In APA style, you’ll need to cite the PowerPoint in the text and, in some cases, include it in the reference list at the end of your essay. Let’s look at each of those in turn and see why sometimes the presentation has no place in the reference list.

In-Text Citation

APA uses an author–date style for in-text citations (those that appear in the body of your essay). But for PowerPoints, an added consideration will determine whether details other than the name of the author and the year of the presentation are needed: does your audience have access to the PowerPoint?

If Your Audience Has Access to the PowerPoint

• For a parenthetical citation , you’ll need to include the author’s surname and the year in parentheses, like this:

(Carter, 2023)

• For a narrative citation , you’ll need to include the year in parentheses immediately after naming the author in the text, like this:

Carter (2023)

If Your Audience Does Not Have Access to the PowerPoint

If your audience does not have access to the PowerPoint, it is effectively a personal communication . Therefore, you’ll need to follow the same system used for other such communications, a process that will involve more detail, as described below.

• For a parenthetical citation , you’ll need to give the author’s initial(s) and surname, the phrase personal communication , and as precise a date as possible. It should look something like this:

(D. Carter, personal communication, February 21, 2023)

• For a narrative citation , you’ll need to write the phrase personal communication and the date of the presentation in parentheses after the author’s name, like this:

D. Carter (personal communication, February 21, 2023)

If You’re Quoting Directly From the PowerPoint

To include a direct quote from a written source, you would include a page number. The equivalent for a PowerPoint presentation is to include the slide number after the year, like this:

(Carter, 2023, slide 6)

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

Carter (2023, slide 6)

Reference List

When it comes to whether and how to include the PowerPoint in your reference list , the crucial question, again, is whether your audience will have access to it. There are three possibilities, which we’ll look at in turn.

PowerPoint Slides Available Online to Anyone

If the PowerPoint you wish to cite is freely available online, then you’ll need to follow this basic format:

Author Surname, First Initial. (Year). Title of presentation [PowerPoint slides]. Host Site. URL

PowerPoint Slides Available Online With Log-In

If the PowerPoint you wish to cite is, for example, on a classroom website and can be accessed by your audience using a log-in, then you’ll need to follow this basic format:

Author Surname, First Initial. (Year). Title of presentation [PowerPoint slides]. Site Name. URL

Because the site requires the user to log in, you’ll need to make sure the URL links to the login page.

PowerPoint Slides Not Available to Your Audience

If you cited the PowerPoint as a personal communication , it will not be available to your audience. Remember that the purpose of the reference list is to allow your audience to find the same source. If they can’t access it, don’t include it.

Following this guidance, you should be able to cite a PowerPoint in APA style confidently. Remember to ask yourself the following:

• If so, follow the guidance in this post to cite the PowerPoint itself.
• If not, follow the separate guidance for how to cite the original source of the information.
• If so, provide an in-text citation and include the source in your reference list .
• If not, include additional detail in the in-text citation and don’t put the source in your reference list.

If you’re still getting in a muddle over citations and referencing or if you would simply like the peace of mind that comes with having them checked by an expert, we have skilled proofreaders available 24-7 who can help. You can even try out our services for free .

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

3-minute read

What Is a Content Editor?

Are you interested in learning more about the role of a content editor and the...

4-minute read

The Benefits of Using an Online Proofreading Service

Proofreading is important to ensure your writing is clear and concise for your readers. Whether...

2-minute read

6 Online AI Presentation Maker Tools

Creating presentations can be time-consuming and frustrating. Trying to construct a visually appealing and informative...

What Is Market Research?

No matter your industry, conducting market research helps you keep up to date with shifting...

8 Press Release Distribution Services for Your Business

In a world where you need to stand out, press releases are key to being...

How to Get a Patent

In the United States, the US Patent and Trademarks Office issues patents. In the United...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

MLA Citation Guide (9th Edition): Powerpoint Presentations

• What Kind of Source Is This?
• Advertisements
• Books, eBooks & Pamphlets
• Book Reviews
• Class Handouts, Presentations, and Readings
• Encyclopedias & Dictionaries
• Government Documents
• Images, Artwork, Charts, Graphs & Tables
• Interviews and Emails (Personal Communications)
• Journal Articles
• Magazine Articles
• Newspaper Articles
• Primary Sources
• Religious Texts
• Social Media
• Videos & DVDs
• In-Text Citation
• Works Quoted in Another Source
• No Author, No Date etc.
• Works Cited List & Sample Paper
• Annotated Bibliography
• Powerpoint Presentations

On this Page

Powerpoint presentations - what do i need to cite, powerpoint presentations - where do my citations go, other digital assignments - where do my citations go.

What am I legally required to cite in my digital assignment?

According to the Copyright Act, you must cite the sources (images, videos, books, websites, etc.) that you used in your digital assignment ( 29.21(1)(b) ). You must cite the source (where you got the information from) and the creator of the content (if available). You must also make sure that any copyrighted materials you used in your assignment meet the conditions set out in section  29.21  of the Copyright Act. For a list of conditions and more information, please visit:  http://studentcopyright.wordpress.com/mashups/

What citation style do I use for the sources in my digital assignment?

There is no one required citation style, so please defer to your instructor's directions and citation style preference.

List your sources in a slide at the end of the Powerpoint presentation, with in-text citations throughout your presentation as applicable.

You could also provide a print copy of the sources you used to those attending your presentation.

Seneca Libraries has the following recommendations for how to organize your list of sources for digital assignments. Please check with your instructor first:

Videos you create: 

List your sources in a credits screen at the end of the video.

Websites you create:

• For images, include a citation under each image using this format “From: XXXX” and then make the image a link back to the original image ( example  - picture of little girl). Or list the citation at the bottom of the web page.
• For quotes or material from other sources, include an in-text citation that links back to the original material ( example  – second paragraph).

Images you create: 

If possible list your sources at the bottom or side of the image ( example ). Otherwise, include a list of citations alongside the image wherever it’s uploaded (e.g. Flickr, Blackboard).

**Please note that the above are recommendations only and your instructor may have a preference and directions for how and where you list your sources for your assignment.**

If you don't receive specific instructions from your instructor, try to include your citations in a way that doesn't impact the design of your digital assignment.

For more information please contact Seneca Libraries copyright team at  [email protected]

• << Previous: Annotated Bibliography
• Next: More Help? >>
• Last Updated: Apr 15, 2024 11:24 AM
• URL: https://columbiacollege-ca.libguides.com/MLA9

How to Cite a PowerPoint Presentation in APA 7?

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter

By Nikolay Kaloyanov

in How-To Tutorials

2 years ago

Viewed 2,872 times

Spread the word about this article:

💡 Before we show you how to cite a PowerPoint in APA, we would like to tell you that all examples and explanations are about APA 7th edition .

In your PowerPoint presentation, you’re going to use a combination of texts and images to present information. You’ll need to cite the sources for these documents and media so your audience knows where to find out more about the topic.

This way, you will both adhere to the rules of using copyrighted information and show that your knowledge on the topic is well researched and you have spent time finding the resources.

What we will discuss in this article is the APA standard and how to make a proper PowerPoint citation in APA standard. Let’s dig deep.

Article Overview: 1. What is Apa? 2. Why do people use APA as a standard? 3. How to cite a PowerPoint presentation in APA? 4. How to Cite a Picture in PowerPoint?

1. What is APA?

APA is one of the most popular and widely used styles for writing research papers. This style of writing citations and citing sources is used in most social sciences – mainly psychology, sociology, and education. The acronym comes from A merican P sychological A ssociation. You can check APA’s website for more information .

2. Why do people use APA as a standard?

Before we tell you how to cite a PowerPoint presentation in APA style, we need to clarify the main reason why people use this style. As the most common standard, it is widely accepted around the world, and the manuals have been sold millions of times.

What makes the APA citation style so popular among educational institutions is that it gives “weight” to the documents that are being examined. Adding the sources and using the right way to present the sources could greatly influence the credibility of any thesis or PowerPoint presentation.

3. How to cite a PowerPoint presentation in APA?

There aren’t one or two ways to cite a Powerpoint presentation in APA. Why? Because there are different conditions that can affect the accessibility of the original source. Let’s see some of the most common occasions in citing PowerPoint presentations in APA style.

3.1. Citing a PowerPoint in APA – Accessible Documents

This is probably the best-case scenario for citations, as your readers will have access to the information, thus they can easily find the original source. Bear in mind you should not include PowerPoint presentations in the reference list if your audience cannot access them.

3.1.1. Citing in PowerPoint from public sites

When you have the source and it is an available webpage, you will have to link directly to the original source.

N.B.  You should always  cite the original source. If you have found a piece of statistics somewhere – let’s say a WeForum article , it is not the original source, thus you cannot refer to information that has not been published by the author.

3.1.2. Citing PowerPoints on password-protected portals

When it comes to citing from a university or other password-protected website, you should refer to the login page, as a direct link will lead to it. Let’s see an example I’ve made up myself.

N.B.  Sometimes, there is no author mentioned. In such cases, we proceed in two ways:

• If there is no author, but an organization that is behind the source:

What we have done is we have replaced the author’s name with the name of the organization that has published the report.

• If there is an unknown author.

In case there’s an unknown author, we replace their name with the title.

3.2. Citing a PowerPoint in APA – Inaccessible Documents

In case your PowerPoint slide is inaccessible to readers, then you have the option to cite the source as personal communication. Let’s see how this happens.

During the presentation, Peterson made a prediction that low-fare airlines will become dominant by 2030 (personal communication, June 3, 2022).

You can add personal communication citations in parentheses somewhere in the text but not in the reference list, as the original source cannot be directly tracked.

3.3. Citing a PowerPoint Slide

Sometimes, a slide during a presentation makes a great impression and you want to add it to your sources. When this happens, it’s better to cite the original source, rather than the PowerPoint slide itself, because of the requirements we discussed in 3.1.1.

4. How to Cite a Picture in PowerPoint?

If you want to learn how to cite a picture in PowerPoint in APA format, then you should apply some different techniques. What you need to do first is to have a very detailed look at the terms and conditions of the original image. Some images require attribution while others don’t.

Once you insert the image, you need to then create a new text box, align it at the center and write the following:

Figure 1. Image Description. Adapted from SOURCE . Retrieved from  SOURCE LINK.  Copyright by  COMPANY NAME COPYRIGHTS  (located at the bottom).

Let’s see how it’s done in practice.

Figure 1. Carbon Footprint and Renewable Energy. Adapted from GraphicMama. Retrieved from https://graphicmama.com/design-bundle/infographic-template-collection#flat-tree-vector-ecology-infographic-template. Copyright by © 2022 GraphicMama.com

Learning how to cite a PowerPoint presentation correctly is crucial if you are submitting your thesis or working on a serious project. The APA style has specific rules that should be followed for your presentations or paper dissertations to look formatted and credible.

If you found our content useful, why don’t you check some of our other tutorials related to PowerPoint and presentations in general:

• 10 Practical Tips to Grab Attention and Make an Impact in Your PowerPoint Presentation
• How to Add Audio to PowerPoint: The Quick Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Get Started with PowerPoint + Guide and Resources

Add some character to your visuals

Cartoon Characters, Design Bundles, Illustrations, Backgrounds and more...

Like us on Facebook

Subscribe to our newsletter

Be the first to know what’s new in the world of graphic design and illustrations.

• [email protected]

Browse High Quality Vector Graphics

E.g.: businessman, lion, girl…

Related Articles

22 coreldraw tutorials for beginners to start design, how to create a powerpoint presentation with cartoon character, the top 24 figma tutorials to create a killer design in 2022, character animator tutorials part 2: basic puppet in illustrator, beginners guide to adobe character animator, enjoyed this article.

Don’t forget to share!

• Comments (0)

Nikolay Kaloyanov

Nikolay is a copywriter with vast experience in Technology, Marketing, and Design. When he isn't playing with words and crafting texts, he watches sports and asks questions. He is a funny person...until you put him on a diet.

Thousands of vector graphics for your projects.

Hey! You made it all the way to the bottom!

Here are some other articles we think you may like:

How-To Tutorials

How to create a custom business card like a professional [tutorials].

by Iveta Pavlova

How to Create Vector Watercolor Texture and Elements in Adobe Illustrator

by Bilyana Nikolaeva

Character Animator Tutorials Part 3: Basic Puppet in Photoshop

by Slavena Simeonova

Looking for Design Bundles or Cartoon Characters?

A source of high-quality vector graphics offering a huge variety of premade character designs, graphic design bundles, Adobe Character Animator puppets, and more.

Generate accurate APA citations for free

• Knowledge Base
• APA Style 6th edition
• How to cite a PowerPoint in APA Style (6th edition)

Citing PowerPoints in APA (6th Edition) | Format & Examples

Published on November 6, 2020 by Koen Driessen . Revised on November 30, 2020.

Table of contents

Slides are only available via: blackboard, n@tschool, moodle, magister etc., slides publicly accessible.

When the slides are part of a digital study database, you can just add a footnote in which you make clear that the source is only accessible via the digital study database.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Is the source publicly accessible, then the reference according to the APA Style is the same as for a normal internet source .

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Driessen, K. (2020, November 30). Citing PowerPoints in APA (6th Edition) | Format & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved April 15, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/apa-style/6th-edition/archived-lecture-slides-handouts/

Is this article helpful?

Koen Driessen

Scribbr apa citation checker.

An innovative new tool that checks your APA citations with AI software. Say goodbye to inaccurate citations!

How to Cite a PowerPoint in Apa

If you’re a student or academic writer, citations are an important part of academic writing. APA (American Psychological Association) citation style is commonly used in the social sciences and is one of the most widely used citation styles. However, when it comes to citing a PowerPoint presentation in APA style, it can be a bit confusing for some. In this article, we’ll explore how to cite a PowerPoint in APA style, and the importance of accurate citations.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Basics of APA Citation Style

Before diving into the specifics of citing PowerPoint presentations, it’s important to understand the basics of APA citation style. APA citation style follows a set of rules and guidelines that dictate how sources should be cited in academic writing. In this style, citations give credit to the source of information. The citations in APA style contain the author’s name, date of publication, title of the source, and publication information. In-text citations also include page numbers for direct quotes.

One important aspect of APA citation style is the use of a reference list at the end of the document. This list includes all sources cited in the text and provides readers with the necessary information to locate the sources themselves. The reference list is organized alphabetically by the author’s last name and includes the full citation information for each source.

It’s also important to note that APA citation style is frequently used in the social sciences, such as psychology, sociology, and education. However, it may also be used in other fields, depending on the preferences of the instructor or publisher. Familiarizing yourself with the basics of APA citation style can help ensure that your academic writing is clear, accurate, and properly cited.

Why Accurate Citations are Important in Academic Writing

Accurate citations are an integral part of academic writing. Citing sources accurately gives credit to the original author and helps distinguish your thoughts from those of others. Accurate citations also demonstrate the depth and breadth of your research and show your readers where you found your information. It’s important for all writers to follow citation guidelines to avoid plagiarism and maintain academic integrity.

Moreover, accurate citations help readers to locate the sources you have used in your research. This is particularly important in academic writing, where readers may want to verify your findings or explore the topic further. By providing accurate citations, you enable your readers to access the same sources you have used, which can enhance the credibility of your work.

Additionally, accurate citations can also help you to avoid legal issues related to copyright infringement. By citing sources properly, you acknowledge the ownership of the original author and avoid any legal consequences that may arise from using someone else’s work without permission. Therefore, it is crucial to take the time to learn the citation guidelines and apply them correctly in your academic writing.

What is a PowerPoint and How to Cite It in APA Style?

A PowerPoint presentation is a computer-based slide show that typically includes text, images, and multimedia elements. When citing a PowerPoint presentation in APA style, it’s important to cite it both in-text and on the references page. The citation should contain the author’s name (or the name of the presenter), the date of the presentation, the title of the presentation, the format (PowerPoint), and if accessed online, the URL or database name and date of access.

PowerPoint presentations are commonly used in academic and professional settings to convey information in a visually appealing way. They can be used to present research findings, teach a lesson, or pitch a business idea. However, it’s important to remember that PowerPoint presentations should be used as a supplement to a verbal presentation, rather than a replacement for it.

When creating a PowerPoint presentation, it’s important to keep in mind the audience and purpose of the presentation. The slides should be clear, concise, and visually appealing, with a focus on key points and takeaways. It’s also important to practice the presentation beforehand to ensure a smooth delivery and to be prepared for any questions or feedback from the audience.

Step-by-Step Guide for Citing a PowerPoint Presentation in APA Style

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cite a PowerPoint presentation in APA style:

• Start with the author’s last name (or the name of the presenter) and first initials. If there are multiple authors or presenters, include their names in parentheses.
• Follow the author’s name with the date the PowerPoint was created or presented in parentheses.
• Include the title of the presentation in italics followed by the format in square brackets (e.g., [PowerPoint slides]).
• If the presentation was accessed online, include the URL or database name and the date of access.

It is important to note that when citing a PowerPoint presentation, you should also include the name of the event or conference where it was presented, as well as the location of the event. This information should be included in parentheses after the title of the presentation.

Additionally, if the PowerPoint presentation includes any images, charts, or graphs that were created by someone other than the author or presenter, you should include a separate citation for each of these sources. This can be done by including the name of the creator, the date of creation, and the title or description of the image in parentheses below the image.

Different Types of PowerPoint Presentations and Their Citation Styles

When citing a PowerPoint presentation, the citation style varies based on its source. Here are some examples:

• PowerPoint presentation from a class or lecture: use the presenter’s name as the author and cite it as an unpublished presentation.
• PowerPoint presentation from a conference or meeting: use the presenter’s name as the author and cite it as a conference presentation.
• PowerPoint presentation from a website or database: use the name of the organization or website as the author and cite it as an online presentation.

It is important to note that when citing a PowerPoint presentation, you should also include the date it was presented or accessed, as well as the title of the presentation. This information helps readers locate the presentation and verify the accuracy of the citation.

In addition, when creating a PowerPoint presentation, it is important to use proper citation practices for any images, graphs, or data used in the presentation. This includes citing the source of the information and obtaining permission to use copyrighted material, if necessary.

How to Cite a PowerPoint with Multiple Authors in APA Style

When citing a PowerPoint presentation with multiple authors, include all of their names in parentheses. For example: (Author 1, Author 2, & Author 3, Year).

It is important to note that if the PowerPoint presentation was retrieved from an online source, the URL of the presentation should be included in the citation. Additionally, if the presentation includes specific slides that were referenced in your work, it is recommended to include the slide number in the citation as well.

When citing a PowerPoint presentation, it is also important to follow the general APA guidelines for citing electronic sources. This includes providing the author’s name, the date of publication, the title of the presentation, and the name of the website or database where the presentation was retrieved from. It is also important to include the date that the presentation was accessed, as electronic sources can be updated or removed over time.

Tips for Avoiding Plagiarism When Citing PowerPoint Presentations

When citing a PowerPoint presentation, it’s important to avoid plagiarism by correctly quoting or paraphrasing the ideas in the presentation. Here are some tips:

• Take careful notes on the main points of the presentation and be sure to properly attribute all quotes and paraphrasing.
• Don’t quote or paraphrase too extensively, and make sure to use your own words and analysis to make the presentation’s points relevant to your own research.
• Be sure to properly credit the presentation within the text with in-text citations and on the References page.

Another important tip is to ensure that you are citing the correct author or presenter of the PowerPoint presentation. If the presentation was created by a group or organization, make sure to credit them as the author rather than an individual presenter.

It’s also important to consider the format of the PowerPoint presentation when citing it. If the presentation includes images or graphs, make sure to properly attribute them as well. You may need to include captions or labels to indicate the source of the visual aids.

Examples of APA Citations for PowerPoint Presentations

Here are some examples of citations for PowerPoint presentations in APA style:

• Berg, A. (2019). The Power of PowerPoint [PowerPoint slides]. Unpublished presentation.
• Jackson, R. & Ryan, K. (2018). Engaging Audiences Through PowerPoint [PowerPoint slides]. Conference presentation, American Marketing Association annual meeting.
• Smith, J. (2017). New Technology for Modern Business [PowerPoint slides]. Retrieved from https://www.example.com/powerpoint/newtechnology/

It is important to note that when citing a PowerPoint presentation in APA style, you should include the author’s name, the year of the presentation, the title of the presentation in brackets, and the type of presentation (e.g. PowerPoint slides, conference presentation, etc.). If the presentation is unpublished, you should indicate that in the citation.

Additionally, if you are citing a PowerPoint presentation that you accessed online, you should include the URL or DOI where the presentation can be found. This will allow readers to easily access the presentation if they are interested in learning more about the topic.

How to Format APA Citations for PowerPoints on the Reference Page

When citing a PowerPoint presentation on the References page, format the citation in the following manner:

• Author’s Last Name, Author’s First Initial. (Year). Title of Presentation [PowerPoint slides]. Retrieved from URL or Name of Database.

It is important to note that if the PowerPoint presentation was part of a larger work, such as a conference proceeding or book, you should include the title of the larger work in italics, followed by “pp.” and the page numbers where the PowerPoint presentation can be found.

Additionally, if the PowerPoint presentation includes images or other multimedia elements that were not created by the author, you should include a separate citation for each of these elements, following the same format as for the PowerPoint presentation itself.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Citing PowerPoints in APA Style

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when citing PowerPoints in APA style:

• Forgetting to include the format (PowerPoint slides) in the citation.
• Not properly attributing ideas or quotes from the presentation in your work.
• Leaving out important citation elements like the date of access for online presentations.

Now that you understand how to properly cite a PowerPoint presentation in APA style, be sure to follow these guidelines in your writing. Accurate citations are an essential component of academic writing and help you maintain the highest level of academic integrity.

By humans, for humans - Best rated articles:

Excel report templates: build better reports faster, top 9 power bi dashboard examples, excel waterfall charts: how to create one that doesn't suck, beyond ai - discover our handpicked bi resources.

Explore Zebra BI's expert-selected resources combining technology and insight for practical, in-depth BI strategies.

We’ve been experimenting with AI-generated content, and sometimes it gets carried away. Give us a feedback and help us learn and improve! 🤍

Note: This is an experimental AI-generated article. Your help is welcome. Share your feedback with us and help us improve.

Free All-in-One Office Suite with PDF Editor

Edit Word, Excel, and PPT for FREE.

Read, edit, and convert PDFs with the powerful PDF toolkit.

Microsoft-like interface, easy to use.

Windows • MacOS • Linux • iOS • Android

• Articles of PPT

How to Cite Sources in a PowerPoint: A Comprehensive Guide

For students, researchers, professionals and all the users, citing PowerPoint presentations is critical. It exhibits and shows academic honesty and acknowledges the original sources of the information you use. This article includes simple guidelines for appropriately citing PowerPoint presentations in different styles such as APA, MLA, and Chicago. It also offers a hint on how to modify and update presentation citations.

Part 1: What Is In-Text Citation? (APA, MLA, Chicago Style)

Before going into how to cite sources in powerpoint, first we should know what it is citing all about.

Basics of In-Text Citation

Nowadays, people can now obtain information and data they need from a variety of sources. In-text citations are references to sources within the body of a document that are often used in academic or scholarly writing.

The three major and most used citation styles are APA (American Psychological Association), MLA (Modern Language Association), and Chicago. Each style has its own framework for citing sources. So it is critical to be familiar with the style that is required for your specific assignment or publication.

Here are some examples of in-text citations in each of the three major citation styles:

APA Style: APA style is the most commonly used citation style in the social sciences

MLA style is the most commonly used citation style in the humanities.

Chicago style:

Chicago style is the most commonly used citation style in history, literature, and the fine arts.

Importance of In-Text Citation

What are the benefits of citing and why is in-text citation important? In-text citation is important for several reasons:

Academic Integrity

Citation showing the principles of academic honesty and intellectual integrity by giving credit to the original authors or creators.

Credibility

It shows that your own work is credible by proving that it has been thoroughly researched and is supported by credible sources. They demonstrate how well-researched sources back up your claims and arguments.

Avoiding Plagiarism

In-text citations help in avoiding plagiarism, which is the unethical act of using someone else's work without acknowledgment.

Verifiability

In-text citations enable readers to trace back to the original sources, making it easier for them to verify the information you've presented. This will also increase the credibility of your work.

Part 2: How to Cite a PowerPoint Presentation in APA, MLA, or Chicago

Citing a PowerPoint presentation in academic or professional work is crucial to acknowledge the source of information. Follow these steps to ensure you do it correctly, and consider using reference management tools like EasyBib for assistance.

Step 1: Determine the Citation Style

Identify the citation style you need to use, whether it's APA, MLA, or Chicago. This choice will dictate how you format your citations.

Step 2: Gather general Presentation or sources information

Collect all the essential information about the PowerPoint presentation. The author's name, title of the presentation, date it was created, and the URL (if applicable).

Step 3: Cite in APA Style

For APA style, format your citation like this:

Author's Last Name, First Initial. (Year, Month Day). Title of Presentation [PowerPoint slides]. Name of Website. URL

Step 4: Cite in MLA Style

For MLA style, format your citation like this:

Author last name, first name. "Title of Presentation." Department Name, University Name, Location, Month Day, Year. Web.

Step 5: Cite in Chicago Style

For Chicago style, format your citation like this:

Author last name, first name. "Title of Presentation." Lecture, Department Name, University Name, Location, Month Day, Year.

How to Edit and Update Citations

Always remember to keep track of any changes to your sources so that you can update or edit the citations in your presentation. Make sure you update the citations in line with any changes you make to the content. With just a few clicks, reference management tools enable you to update your citations, which can help automate this process.

Why Choose WPS Office

WPS Office is an essential software tool for creating and checking PowerPoint presentations. WPS supports opening PowerPoint documents and offers a range of features and benefits for creating and editing presentations. Here are some of the features and benefits of using WPS Office Presentation:

Free download and free to use Word, Excel, and PPT: WPS Office is completely free to use, with no hidden fees or subscriptions.

● Powerful PDF toolkit: WPS Office includes a powerful PDF toolkit that allows users to create, edit, and convert PDF files.

● Rich template store: WPS Office has a rich template store with over 10,000 templates to choose from, including a variety of scheduling templates.

● Rich functions : WPS Office offers a wide range of features and functions, including the ability to collaborate with others online and to create and edit documents on the go.

● Light weight: WPS Office is a lightweight application that takes up very little space on your computer.

● Support online documents : WPS Office allows users to save and access documents online, making it easy to collaborate with others and to access your files from anywhere.

● Safe and stable: WPS Office is a safe and stable application that has been used by millions of people around the world.

Steps to edit Powerpoint in WPS:

Step 1: Download and install WPS Office

Step 2: Open WPS Presentation (PowerPoint)

To edit a PowerPoint presentation: use the toolbar to add slides, text, images, and other objects.

Step 4:  Save Your Changes:

After making edits, click on "File" -> Choose "Save" to overwrite the existing file or "Save As" to create a new version.

Step 5: Close the Document:

When you're done editing, click on the "X" button in the top-right corner to close the document

Save your change

Step 6: Exit WPS Office:  

Click on "File." -> Select "Exit" to close the application.

Congratulations! You've successfully edited PowerPoint documents using WPS Office.

Use Word, Excel, and PPT for FREE, No Ads.

Edit PDF files with the powerful PDF toolkit.

Microsoft-like interface. Easy to learn. 100% Compatibility.

Boost your productivity with WPS's abundant free Word, Excel, PPT, and CV templates.

Q1: How do you write a reference list in PPT?

To create a reference list in PowerPoint:

a. Choose a citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).

b. Collect source information.

c. Create a new slide for your reference list.

d. Format it according to the chosen style.

e. List your sources with full details.

f. Ensure in-text citations match your reference list.

Q2: How do you in text cite a website in PowerPoint?

In-text citations for websites in a PowerPoint presentation:

a. Include the author's last name and publication date, e.g., (Smith, 2022).

b. If no author, use the title or organization name, e.g., ("Website Title," 2022).

c. If no publication date, use "n.d."

d. Add page numbers if quoting directly.

Q3: How do you format citations for books in PowerPoint?

To format citations for books in PowerPoint, follow these guidelines:

In-text citation: Include the author's last name and the publication year in parentheses, e.g., (Smith, 2022).

Reference list: List the book's citation details, including the author(s), book title in italics, publication date in parentheses, publisher, and page numbers (if applicable). Follow the specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA) for formatting details.

Q4: Can you use footnotes for citations in a PowerPoint presentation?

Yes, you can use footnotes for citations in a PowerPoint presentation. To do so:

Insert a footnote on the slide where you want to provide additional citation information.

Include the full citation details in the footnote, including the author, publication date, title, and any other relevant information.

Make sure to format the footnote according to the chosen citation style.

Q5: How can you avoid plagiarism in a PowerPoint presentation?

To avoid plagiarism in a PowerPoint presentation:

Properly cite all sources you use, including text, images, and data.

Use quotation marks for direct quotes and provide in-text citations.

Paraphrase information from sources while still citing them.

Create a thorough reference list at the end of your presentation.

Follow your institution's or publication's guidelines for proper citation.

This comprehensive guide covers citing sources in PowerPoint presentations, emphasizing the importance of proper citations and the use of in-text citations in APA, MLA, and Chicago styles. In-text citations are crucial for maintaining academic integrity, credibility, and avoiding plagiarism.

To cite a PowerPoint presentation correctly, select the appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, or Chicago), gather essential information like author, title, date, and URL, and apply the specific citation format. It's essential to update citations when source details change, and reference management tools can facilitate this process. WPS Office , a useful tool for creating and editing presentations, offers a range of features, including a powerful PDF toolkit, templates, collaboration options, and safety and stability.

• 1. How to Cite a PowerPoint in APA [A Complete Guide]
• 2. How to Cite a PowerPoint in MLA Style The Beginner’s Guide
• 3. Do You Know How to Cite a PDF in APA 7th Edition?
• 4. How to Cite in a PowerPoint (APA, MLA, Chicago Style) The Ultimate Guide
• 5. How to Cite Sources in a PowerPoint_ A Comprehensive Guide
• 6. How to Cite a PDF in MLA without an Author: A Comprehensive Guide

15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.