How to Reference Census Data
Census data is a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and individuals seeking to understand various aspects of a population. Whether you are writing an academic paper, a report, or a blog post, it is crucial to reference census data correctly to ensure accuracy and credibility. In this article, we will guide you through the process of referencing census data in different formats and styles.
Understanding the Source
Before referencing census data, it is essential to understand the source. Census data is collected by government agencies, such as the United States Census Bureau or the United Kingdom’s Office for National Statistics. The source of the data can significantly impact how you reference it.
APA Style
In APA style, when referencing census data, you should include the year of the census, the title of the report, the publisher, and the page number where the data is found. For example:
> United States Census Bureau. (2020). Population and Housing Unit Estimates. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/census/estimates.html
If you are citing a specific table or figure from the census report, include the table number or figure number in parentheses:
> United States Census Bureau. (2020). Population and Housing Unit Estimates (Table 1). Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/census/estimates.html
MLA Style
In MLA style, you should reference census data in the text by including the year of the census and the title of the report. For example:
> According to the United States Census Bureau (2020), the population of the United States is 332,064,627.
If you need to provide a full citation in the Works Cited list, include the title of the report, the publisher, and the URL:
> United States Census Bureau. “Population and Housing Unit Estimates.” 2020. https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/census/estimates.html
Chicago Style
In Chicago style, you can reference census data in the text by including the year of the census and the title of the report. For example:
> According to the United States Census Bureau (2020), the population of the United States is 332,064,627.
To provide a full citation in the Works Cited list, include the title of the report, the publisher, and the URL:
> United States Census Bureau. “Population and Housing Unit Estimates.” 2020. Web. 10 Mar. 2021. https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/census/estimates.html
Chicago Notes-Bibliography Style
In Chicago Notes-Bibliography style, you can reference census data in the text by including the year of the census and the title of the report. For example:
> (United States Census Bureau 2020)
To provide a full citation in the Notes section, include the title of the report, the publisher, and the URL:
> United States Census Bureau. “Population and Housing Unit Estimates.” 2020. https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/census/estimates.html
Conclusion
Referencing census data correctly is essential for maintaining the integrity of your research. By following the guidelines provided in this article, you can ensure that your references are accurate and credible. Remember to always consult the specific style guide you are using for any additional instructions or formatting requirements.
