The citing of government documents can present unique challenges to a writer. Many documents have only agencies as authors or do not give credit to the personal authors of a work. Titles may vary or there may be several possible titles on the cover. Nevertheless, citations for federal publications are clearly outlined in many citation manuals.
Proper citation is essential to both the writer and the reader.
A clear citation lends authority to your work and also acknowledges the writers and their ideas. This two-page worksheet was designed to help you properly cite a government document. As always, speak with a librarian if you are not sure of the proper way to cite a document. Remember to carefully take notes while you're doing your research. Write down the issuing agency, publication's title, publisher and date so that when you are ready to type your paper the material will be readily available in one place.