Q. How do I cite a dataset?

Citing a dataset or raw data is just an important as citing a journal article or anything else you refer to in your work. Many citation styles do not have a prescribed way to cite data, so you may have to adapt an existing format. To adapt:

• Use the minimum elements required to identify and retrieve the dataset,
• Then, use the punctuation requirements suggested in your citation style.
• Double check your style manual and see the requirements for each style on our Citation Research Guide.

APA, ASA, and APSA all have dataset citation style formats. You can also find some examples of dataset citations on the IASSIST Quick Guide to Data Citation.