How to Cite Social Media Posts

Learn how to properly cite posts from various social media platforms in APA format.

Basic Format

Author, A. A. [@username]. (Year, Month Day). Content of post up to first 20 words [Type of post]. Platform Name. URL

Note: Include the post type in square brackets (e.g., [Tweet], [Facebook status], [Instagram photo], etc.).

Platform-Specific Examples

Twitter/X Posts

Smith, J. [@johnsmith]. (2023, August 20). New research shows the importance of proper citation in academic writing [Tweet]. Twitter. https://twitter.com/johnsmith/status/123456789

• Include both real name and username
• Use exact date of tweet
• Include first 20 words of tweet
• Specify [Tweet] as post type

Facebook Posts

University Library. (2023, July 15). Join us for a workshop on APA citation styles next week [Facebook status]. Facebook. https://facebook.com/universitylibrary/posts/123456789

• Use page or group name for organizational accounts
• Specify [Facebook status] as post type
• Include direct URL to the post

Instagram Posts

Chen, R. [@researchguide]. (2023, June 1). Infographic showing the basics of APA citation [Instagram photo]. Instagram. https://instagram.com/p/123456789

• Specify content type: [Instagram photo], [Instagram video], etc.
• Include caption text if relevant
• Use permanent link to post

LinkedIn Posts

Martinez, A. (2023, May 5). The importance of proper citation in professional documents [LinkedIn post]. LinkedIn. https://linkedin.com/posts/amartinez_123456789

• Use professional name as appears on profile
• Specify [LinkedIn post] as type
• Include relevant hashtags if part of post

Special Cases

Replies and Comments

Wilson, K. [@kwilson]. (2023, August 21). Re: @johnsmith New research shows [Reply to Tweet]. Twitter. https://twitter.com/kwilson/status/987654321

When citing replies, include "Re:" and the original author's username.

Posts in Another Language

García, M. [@mgarcia]. (2023). Guía de citación APA [APA citation guide] [Tweet]. Twitter. https://twitter.com/mgarcia/status/123456789

Include English translation in square brackets after original text.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't omit usernames or handles
Don't forget to specify the type of post
Don't use URLs that require login to access
Don't include personal communications without permission
Don't cite deleted or private posts