What is a common mistake to avoid when using in-text citations?

Failing to include the year of publication is a common mistake to avoid when using in-text citations because the year provides essential context to the reader regarding the timeliness and relevance of the information being cited. In APA style, it is crucial to indicate when the source was published so that readers can assess the currency of the work. When a citation is missing the publication year, it creates a gap in understanding the context of the research or argument presented, making it unclear how current the referenced information is.

Including the author and the publication year is vital for establishing credibility and allowing readers to locate the source in the reference list. Thus, ensuring that the year of publication is included in an in-text citation is fundamental for proper citation and academic integrity.