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How do I reference two sources that have the same author and the same date? (APA)

If you are referencing more than one source written by the same author(s), but published in different years, reference as normal. The date in your in-text citation and matching reference will make it clear which source you are referencing.

If the sources were published in the same year, Add a lowercase letter (a, b, c etc.) after the year to differentiate between two different sources in the in-text citation and reference list.  

In-text citations 

The Engineering Council (2020a) advises that engineers should take a leading role in risk management. 

'Engineers have a stewardship role with respect to planetary resources' (Engineering Council, 2020b). 

Reference list  

Include the lowercase letters after the year in your reference list. This allows the reader to trace which source you have referred to in the in-text citation. 

Engineering Council. (2020a). Guidance on risk. https://www.engc.org.uk/standards-guidance/guidance/guidance-on-risk/ 

Engineering Council. (2020b). Guidance on sustainability. https://www.engc.org.uk/standards-guidance/guidance/guidance-on-sustainability/ 



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Last Updated: Sep 04, 2026    Views: 6

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