Understanding CSE Format In-Text Citations

In this article, we will explore the Council of Science Editors (CSE) format for in-text citations. You will learn how to properly cite sources within your research paper, ensuring both clarity and credibility in your writing.
By Jamie

CSE Format In-Text Citation Examples

The Council of Science Editors (CSE) format is commonly used in scientific writing. When it comes to in-text citations, CSE provides a straightforward approach, allowing you to credit sources effectively. Below are examples illustrating the different citation methods:

1. Name-Year System

In the name-year system, the author’s last name and the publication year are included in the text. Here are some examples:

  • Single Author:

    • Example: Research indicates that climate change significantly affects biodiversity (Smith 2020).

  • Two Authors:

    • Example: Recent studies demonstrate a correlation between exercise and mental health (Jones and Taylor 2019).

  • Three or More Authors:

    • Example: A comprehensive review of the literature supports this hypothesis (Johnson et al. 2021).

2. Citation-Sequencing System

In the citation-sequencing system, you use superscript numbers in the text that correspond to a numbered reference list at the end of your document. Here are some examples:

  • Single Source:

    • Example: The effects of pollution on marine life have been widely studied¹.

  • Multiple Sources:

    • Example: Several researchers have noted the importance of renewable energy sources²,³.

3. Parenthetical Citations

CSE also allows for parenthetical citations, which can be particularly useful for shorter works:

  • Example:
    • The findings were consistent with previous research (Smith 2020).

Summary

Using CSE format for in-text citations ensures that your research is credible and traceable. Always remember to match your in-text citations with the corresponding entries in your reference list. For more detailed guidelines on CSE formatting, refer to the official CSE manual.