How to Cite Videos

Learn how to properly cite YouTube videos, TED talks, and other online video content in APA format.

Basic Format

Author, A. A. [Screen name]. (Year, Month Day). Title of video [Video]. Platform. URL

Channel Name. (Year, Month Day). Title of video [Video]. Platform. URL

Examples

YouTube Video

Vsauce. (2023, June 15). Why Are Things Creepy? [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=example

TED Talk

Brown, B. (2012, March). The power of vulnerability [Video]. TED Conferences. https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability

Educational Video

Khan Academy. (2021, September 10). Introduction to quantum mechanics [Video]. Khan Academy. https://www.khanacademy.org/science/physics/quantum-mechanics

Key Elements

Creator Information

  • Include personal name if known
  • Add screen name in brackets
  • Use channel name if no personal name
  • Note multiple contributors

Video Details

  • Provide exact upload date
  • Include video duration
  • Note series information
  • Add part numbers if applicable

Platform Information

  • Specify video platform
  • Include direct video URL
  • Note access restrictions
  • Add channel URL if relevant

Special Cases

Additional Guidelines

  • For livestreams, note original broadcast date
  • Include timestamp for specific sections
  • Note if video has been edited
  • Specify language or subtitles

In-Text Citations

First Citation

Use the creator name and year:

According to Vsauce (2023), the psychology of creepiness...

Subsequent Citations

Use parenthetical citation:

The research demonstrated several key findings (Vsauce, 2023)...

Video Types

Online Lectures

  • Include course information
  • Note institution name
  • Add instructor details
  • Specify lecture number/topic

Conference Presentations

  • Include conference name
  • Add presentation session
  • Note presentation format
  • Specify recording details

Timestamps and Segments

  • Use time format (HH:MM:SS)
  • Include range for segments
  • Note chapter markers
  • Add relevant descriptions
  • Specify time zone if relevant

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't omit upload dates
  • Don't forget [Video] designation
  • Don't use unstable or shortened URLs
  • Don't ignore screen names
  • Don't mix platform information