How to Cite a Software

Programs, applications, code repositories, and software packages.

What You'll Need

Software Name
Author(s)/Developer(s)
Version
Publisher/Organization
Repository
Release Date
URL
Date Accessed

Check the repository (GitHub, GitLab) for version number, release date, and contributors. README files often contain the preferred citation format.

Example Citations

APA
R Core Team. (2023). R: A Language and Environment for Statistical Computing (Version 4.3.2) [Computer software]. R Foundation for Statistical Computing. https://www.R-project.org/
In-text (R Core Team, 2023)
MLA Handbook (in-text citations)
R Core Team. R: A Language and Environment for Statistical Computing. Version 4.3.2, R Foundation for Statistical Computing, 2023, https://www.R-project.org/.
In-text (R Core Team)
CMOS 17e with Bluebook (notes and bibliography [14.19])
R Core Team. R: A Language and Environment for Statistical Computing. V. 4.3.2. Vienna, Austria: R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Released 2023. https://www.R-project.org/.
Footnote R Core Team, R: A Language and Environment for Statistical Computing, v. 4.3.2, Vienna, Austria: R Foundation for Statistical Computing, released 2023, https://www.R-project.org/.

Other Source Types

Website Book Journal Article Newspaper Article Book Chapter Thesis/Dissertation Report Video Podcast/Broadcast Magazine Article Dataset Patent Legal Case Legislation Bill Regulation Hearing Standard Treaty Conference Paper Manuscript Review Book Review Classic Work Reference Entry Dictionary Entry Encyclopedia Entry Periodical Collection Interview Speech Song Musical Score Graphic Figure Map Performance Event Pamphlet Article Document Post Blog Post Personal Communication