To cite a PDF, you should treat it according to the original source type it represents (e.g., book, article, report) because a PDF is just a file format, not a source type itself. The citation style you use (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) will determine the exact format, but generally, you include author, title, publication date, publisher (if applicable), and the URL or note that it is a PDF download if relevant.
How to Cite a PDF in Common Styles
APA Style
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Cite a PDF like a webpage or online document.
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Include: Author(s), year, title (italicized), publisher (if different from author), and URL.
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Example:
Fox, M. (2008). Indiana income limits. Indiana Government Information. https://www.huduser.org/Datasets/IL/IL08/in_fy2008.pdf -
If the PDF is online-only, treat it as a website with a URL. If no date, use “n.d.”
MLA Style
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Identify the original source type (e.g., book, article) and cite accordingly.
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Add “PDF file” or “PDF download” at the end if you want to specify the format.
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Example for a downloaded PDF:
2017 Trust Fund Annual Report , The World Bank Group, 2017. PDF download. -
Example with URL:
2017 Trust Fund Annual Report , The World Bank Group, 2017, [www.worldbank.org/.../2017-trust-fund-annual- report.pdf.[1](http://www.worldbank.org/.../2017-trust-fund-annual- report.pdf.%5B1)]
Chicago Style
- Cite like an online book or report.
- Include author, title (italicized), publisher, publication date, and URL.
- Example:
Joint Programming Initiative on Cultural Heritage and Global Change. Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda 2020. JPI Cultural Heritage, May
- [http://jpi-ch.eu/wp-content/uploads/2156_JPI-Cultural- Heritage.pdf.[1](http://jpi-ch.eu/wp-content/uploads/2156_JPI-Cultural- Heritage.pdf.%5B1)]
General Tips
- Always try to find the original source of the PDF content.
- If missing information (author, date), include what you have and note missing elements if needed.
- Use the citation style requested by your instructor or organization.
- Include the URL if the PDF is accessed online. If the PDF is offline or from a restricted source, omit the URL and cite like a print source.
In summary, citing a PDF involves citing the content it contains according to the appropriate source type and citation style, with an added note or URL to indicate the PDF format if desired.
