As academic researchers, we are constantly looking for ways to improve our writing and to ensure that our work is properly cited. One of the most important aspects of academic writing is citing sources correctly, and this is especially true when it comes to citing dissertations. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to cite dissertation Chicago style, including detailed information on the formatting, in-text citations, and reference list.
1. Formatting Your Dissertation Citation
The first step in citing a dissertation in Chicago style is to ensure that your citation is properly formatted. The basic format for a dissertation citation in Chicago style is as follows:
Last name, First name. “Title of Dissertation.” PhD diss., University, Year published
To properly format your citation, you will need to include the author’s last name, first name, the title of the dissertation, the degree awarded, the university where the dissertation was published, and the year of publication. For example:
Smith, John. “The Effects of Climate Change on Agriculture.” PhD diss., University of Chicago, 2020.
2. In-Text Citations
In addition to formatting your dissertation citation correctly, you will also need to include in-text citations in your paper. In-text citations are used to give credit to the original source of the information you are using in your paper.
When citing a dissertation in Chicago style, you will need to include the author’s last name and the year of publication in parentheses. For example:
(Smith 2020)
If you are citing a specific page or section of the dissertation, you will also need to include the page number. For example:
(Smith 2020, 35)
3. Reference List
The final step in citing a dissertation in Chicago style is to include the citation in your reference list. The reference list should be formatted as follows:
Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Dissertation.” PhD diss., University, Year published.
For example:
Smith, John. “The Effects of Climate Change on Agriculture.” PhD diss., University of Chicago, 2020.
4. FAQ
Q. Can I use a dissertation citation in my paper even if I did not read the entire dissertation?
A. Yes, you can still cite a dissertation even if you did not read the entire document. However, it is important to make sure that you have read enough of the dissertation to accurately cite the information you are using.
Q. Can I cite a dissertation that was published in a non-English language?
A. Yes, you can still cite a dissertation that was published in a non-English language. However, it is important to include a translation of the title of the dissertation in your citation.
Q. Do I need to include the author’s middle initial in the citation?
A. No, you do not need to include the author’s middle initial in the citation. Only the author’s first and last names should be included.
Q. What if the dissertation was published online?
A. If the dissertation was published online, you should include the URL or DOI in your citation.
Q. Can I cite a dissertation that was published more than 10 years ago?
A. Yes, you can still cite a dissertation that was published more than 10 years ago. However, it is important to make sure that the information you are citing is still relevant and accurate.
5. Conclusion
Citing a dissertation in Chicago style can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and tools, it can be done correctly and efficiently. By following the guidelines we have provided in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your dissertation citations are properly formatted, your in-text citations are accurate, and your reference list is complete and up-to-date. By mastering this important aspect of academic writing, you can elevate the quality of your research and ensure that your work is properly cited and respected within the academic community.
