How to Cite a PDF

Last updated: January 1, 2026

A PDF is usually cited like the source type it represents (report, article, book chapter). Use the PDF URL if that's how you accessed it.

General approach

Identify what the PDF is (report, journal article, etc.).
Use the author/organization and publication date.
Include the title and the URL where you accessed it.

APA (7th) PDF format (common report)

Organization Name. (Year). Title of report (Report No. X). Publisher. URL

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