how to cite a picture in presentation

• Ask a Librarian

Locating and Using Images for Presentations and Coursework

• Free & Open Source Images
• How to Cite Images
• Alt Text Image Descriptions

Copyright Resources

• Copyright Term and the Public Domain in the United States from Cornell University Library
• Copyright Overview from Purdue University
• U.S. Copyright Office
• Fair Use Evaluator
• Visual Resources Association's Statement of Fair Use of Images for Teaching, Research, and Study
• Creative Commons Licenses

Attribution

Again, the majority of images you find are under copyright and cannot be used without permission from the creator. There are exceptions with Fair Use, but this Libguide is intended to help you locate images you can use with attribution (and in some case, the images are free to use without attribution when stated, such as with stock images from pixabay). ***Please read about public domain . These images aren't under copyright, but it's still good practice to include attribution if the information is available. Attribution : the act of attributing something, especially the ascribing of a work (as of literature or art) to a particular author or artist. When you have given proper attribution, it means you have given the information necessary for people to know who the creator of the work is.

Citation General Guidelines

Include as much of the information below when citing images in a paper and formal presentations. Apply the appropriate citation style (see below for APA, MLA examples).

• Image creator's name (artist, photographer, etc.)
• Title of the image
• Date the image (or work represented by the image) was created
• Date the image was posted online
• Date of access (the date you accessed the online image)
• Institution (gallery, museum) where the image is located/owned (if applicable)
• Website and/or Database name

Citing Images in MLA, APA, Chicago, and IEEE

• Directions for citing in MLA, APA, and Chicago MLA: Citing images in-text, incorporating images into the text of your paper, works cited APA 6th ed.: Citing images in-text and reference list Chicago 17th ed.: Citing images footnotes and endnotes and bibliography from Simon Fraser University
• How to Cite Images Using IEEE from the SAIT Reg Erhardt Library
• Image, Photograph, or Related Artwork (IEEE) from the Rochester Institute of Technology Library

Citing Images in Your PPT

Currently, citing images in PPT is a bit of the Wild West. If details aren't provided by an instructor, there are a number of ways to cite. What's most important is that if the image is not a free stock image, you give credit to the author for the work. Here are some options:

1. Some sites, such as Creative Commons and Wikimedia, include the citation information with the image. Use that citation when available. Copy the citation and add under the image. For example, an image of a lake from Creative Commons has this citation next to it:  "lake"  by  barnyz  is licensed under  CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 .

2. Include a marker, such as Image 1. or Figure 1., and in the reference section, include full citation information with the corresponding number

3. Include a complete citation (whatever the required format, such as APA) below the image

4. Below the image, include the link to the online image location

5. Hyperlink the title of the image with the online image location

• << Previous: Free & Open Source Images
• Next: Alt Text Image Descriptions >>
• Last Edited: Jun 8, 2023 3:28 PM
• URL: https://guides.lib.purdue.edu/images

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How to Cite Images in PowerPoint

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Jennifer Mueller is a wikiHow Content Creator. She specializes in reviewing, fact-checking, and evaluating wikiHow's content to ensure thoroughness and accuracy. Jennifer holds a JD from Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 2006. This article has been viewed 307,739 times. Learn more...

When you're preparing a presentation using PowerPoint, you need to cite all images used that you didn't create yourself. This includes graphs or tables that you may have copied from a book, website, or other source. Unlike a text citation, an image caption in a slide presentation also includes a copyright or license statement. While this may sound complex, it's usually pretty simple if you know where to look . Beyond that, the format for your caption varies depending on whether you're using Modern Language Association (MLA), American Psychological Association (APA) , or Chicago citation style. [1] X Research source

Template and Examples

• Example: Fig. 1.

• Example: Fig. 1. Pedestrians walking by street art graffiti of the word love from:

• Example: Fig. 1. Pedestrians walking by street art graffiti of the word love from: "Pedestrian Street Art Protest," 26 Dec. 2016, pxhere.com/en/photo/10722. Accessed 29 Oct. 2018.
• If the image is available online, include a direct URL to the web page where the image can be found, instead of a page number.

• Example: Fig. 1. Pedestrians walking by street art graffiti of the word love from: "Pedestrian Street Art Protest," 26 Dec. 2016, pxhere.com/en/photo/10722. Accessed 29 Oct. 2018. Creative Commons CC0.

MLA Caption Format

Fig. x. Description of image from: Last Name, First Name. "Title of Original Image." Publication , Day Month Year, p. x. Copyright or CC License.

• Example: Figure 1 .

• Example: Figure 1 . Cat watching World of Warcraft on a laptop.

• Example: Figure 1 . Cat watching World of Warcraft on a laptop. Adapted from "World of Warcraft Obsession," by Stacina, 2004, retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/staci/14430768.

• Example: Figure 1 . Cat watching World of Warcraft on a laptop. Adapted from "World of Warcraft Obsession," by Stacina, 2004, retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/staci/14430768. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

APA Caption Format

Figure 1 . Description of image in sentence case. Adapted from "Title of Original Image," by Artist, Year, retrieved from URL.

• Example: Stacina. (2004). World of Warcraft Obsession [photograph]. Retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/staci/14430768.

APA Reference List Citation Format

Artist Last Name, First Initial. Middle Initial. (Year). Title of image in sentence case [Description of format]. Retrieved from URL.

• Example: Figure 1.

• Example: Figure 1. The Banquet of Cleopatra by Giambattista Tiepolo depicts a contest between Cleopatra and Mark Antony.

• Example: Giambattista Tiepolo, The Banquet of Cleopatra , 1743-44, oil on canvas, 250.3 x 357.0 cm, accessed 24 May 2018, http://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/col/work/4409.
• For slide presentations, you may use endnotes instead of footnotes, to keep your slides clean. The format remains the same.

Chicago Footnote Format

Artist First Name, Last Name, Title of Image , Year, materials, dimensions, accessed Day Month Year, URL.

Expert Q&A

• All visual elements in your presentation that are not either tables or musical scores are labeled with "Fig." or "Figure" and a number. [5] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ http://writeanswers.royalroads.ca/faq/199200
• ↑ https://guides.lib.monash.edu/c.php?g=219786&p=1454474
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_tables_figures_and_examples.html

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How-To Geek

How to cite pictures in powerpoint.

If you're using a third-party image or photo in PowerPoint, you'll probably need to cite the author or source underneath. Here's how.

Quick Links

How to cite pictures and images in powerpoint, grouping citation text and images together in powerpoint.

Billions of images are on the internet---but not all of them are free to use. When you add licensed photos to PowerPoint documents, you'll probably need to cite where it's from and who made it. Here's how.

Before we begin, it's important to remember that how you cite pictures may vary. Formal citation is required in an academic setting, where formal styles like APA are used for documents. Alternatively, copyright licensing may require you to cite images in a different way, depending on the license used.

The process for citing pictures and images in PowerPoint is actually quite simple. Unlike citations in Microsoft Word or other Office software, PowerPoint isn't really designed with referencing in mind. That doesn't mean you shouldn't cite pictures in PowerPoint---it may still be a requirement for academic and licensing reasons.

To cite an image or photo in PowerPoint, you'll need to first open a PowerPoint presentation and  insert a picture or image.

Related: How to Insert a Picture or Other Object in Microsoft Office

To add a citation to the image, you'll need to add a text box. To do this, click Insert > Text Box on the ribbon bar.

Next, draw your text box using your mouse or trackpad---place this under your image or in a suitable position close by to it.

Once the text box is created, you can add the citation.

Refer to the relevant image licensing guide or academic style guide on how to do this. For academic referencing, you can use the Cite This For Me service to create a citation which you can copy into your text box.

Once your citation is in place, you can then format the text using the formatting options in the ribbon bar under the "Home" tab.

It's probably a good idea, once your citation is in place, to anchor it to your image  using the PowerPoint grouping feature.

Related: How to Anchor Pictures to Text in PowerPoint

To do this, select both your citation text box and image using your mouse and then right-click. In the options menu that appears, select Group > Group to bind the image and text box together.

By grouping your citation text box and image together, any changes you make to your image (for instance, resizing or moving it) will now be applied to both simultaneously.

To ungroup them later, simply repeat the steps above by right-clicking your image or text box and then clicking Group > Ungroup instead.

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How to Cite Pictures in PowerPoint

Make sure creators get their due credit

What to Know

• macOS: Select Insert > Text Box > click and drag beneath image to create box, double-click inside box, enter text .
• Windows: Select Insert > Text Box > create box beneath image, double-click inside box, enter text .

This article explains how to properly cite pictures and graphic images taken or created by someone in PowerPoint. Instructions apply to PowerPoint 2019, 2016, 2013, PowerPoint for Mac, PowerPoint 365, and PowerPoint Online.

How to Cite Images in PowerPoint for macOS

To get started, navigate to the slide containing the image or images that need to be credited.

Failing to properly cite photos or other original images is not only unprofessional, but can also be a violation of copyright and trademark laws in some instances.

Select Insert , located towards the top of the PowerPoint interface.

Select Text Box .

Your mouse cursor should now be modified to contain the letter A inside of a black box. Click and drag directly under the image in question to draw a text box, which will contain your citation text. 

Don’t be too concerned with the specific dimensions of your text box at this point, as it can be easily resized after you’ve entered your citation details.

Double-click your new text box so a blinking cursor is displayed inside of it, signaling that you can begin typing.

To start, enter Figure 1.

If this example, we’ve typed Figure 1. since it’s our first citation in the document. For citing subsequent images, simply increase the number by one each time.

Highlight the text you just typed, then select Home , located in the upper left-hand corner of the PowerPoint window. 

Select Italic , located in the Font section of the PowerPoint ribbon, so your text is now formatted in italics.

Next, type a valid description of your image. 

To meet APA standards, your description should be typed in the form of a sentence.

Enter the following text after your description: Adapted from “,” . In most cases you should be able to obtain the image’s title from its source. If not, it can be replaced with the image’s subject and type of work.

For more details on AP Style, refer to the APA Style’s official website . 

Following the title, type " by , year the image was created, retrieved from ."

If your image was not obtained from the internet or you can't link to a direct web address, replace the URL value with an accurate source (i.e., Getty Images). 

If you’ve been granted permission to use the image in question, you may also want to include licensing or copyright information at the end of your citation. 

How to Cite Images in PowerPoint for Windows

You can also add citations to your slides in the web-based version of PowerPoint, which runs in any major web browser. The instructions are identical to the Windows version.

Go to the slide containing the pictures or images that need to be credited.

Select Text Box , located in the PowerPoint toolbar ribbon.

The appearance of your mouse cursor should now be modified. Select and drag directly under the image in question to draw a text box, which will contain your citation text. 

Your text box can be resized after you’ve entered your citation details.

Double-click your new text box so a blinking cursor is displayed inside of it, signaling you can begin typing.

For citing subsequent images, simply increase the number by one each time.

Highlight the text you just entered.

In Format , in the Font section, select Italic .

If your image was not obtained from the internet or you cannot link to a direct web address, replace the URL value with an accurate source (i.e., Getty Images). 

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How to Cite Images in a PowerPoint: APA Style Guide

Citing images in a PowerPoint presentation according to the APA format might seem tricky, but it’s quite straightforward once you know the steps. Essentially, you need to provide enough information for your audience to be able to locate the image themselves, including the creator’s name, the year the image was created, a title or description, and the source URL if applicable.

After you complete the citation action, the image in your PowerPoint will have a proper reference that follows APA guidelines. This enables your audience to track down the image source if they need to, and it ensures you are not infringing on copyright laws.

Introduction

When you’re whipping up a PowerPoint presentation, whether it’s for a class project, a business meeting, or a conference, using images can make your slides more engaging and informative. However, using images comes with the responsibility of proper citation. You can’t just pluck images from the depths of the internet without giving credit to the creators—it wouldn’t be ethical or legal.

Understandably, you might scratch your head thinking about the proper way to cite images according to the American Psychological Association (APA) format. Fear not, it’s not rocket science, and it’s crucial for academic integrity and respecting intellectual property rights. Remember, citing sources is not just a tedious task; it’s a way to lend credibility to your work and avoid the pitfalls of plagiarism.

Citing images according to APA is relevant not only to students but also to professionals and researchers who use visual aids to support their presentations. It’s a skill that, once mastered, will serve you well throughout your academic and professional career. So, let’s dive in and figure out how to get those citations picture-perfect!

The step-by-step tutorial to cite images in a PowerPoint according to the APA

The following steps will lead you through the process of citing images in your PowerPoint presentation according to APA guidelines.

Step 1: Find the necessary information for the citation

Identify the creator’s name, the year the image was created, a title or description, and the URL if the image is from an online source.

When you find an image you want to use, make sure to note down all the required information for the citation. If you’re using an image from a book or a magazine, the same rules apply—note the publication details.

Step 2: Place the citation on the slide with the image

Add a text box on the slide and input the citation information underneath or beside the image.

Make sure your text is readable against the slide background and is in a font and size that is consistent with the rest of your presentation. The citation should be discreet but still legible.

Step 3: Format the citation according to APA style

In the text box, format your citation as follows: (Creator’s Last Name, Year). If there’s a title, include it in italics, followed by the URL if applicable.

The APA style is pretty particular about formatting, so double-check you’ve got the right punctuation and italicization.

Additional Information

Citing images in your PowerPoint presentations is not just about avoiding plagiarism; it’s about building a presentation that is credible and professional. When you include citations, you show that you have done your research and you value the work of others. Additionally, APA citations are not set in stone; they are periodically updated, so make sure you’re using the most current guidelines.

Remember, when in doubt, provide more information rather than less. If you can’t find a date for an image, use “n.d.” for no date. If you can’t find the creator’s name, use “Anon” for anonymous. And if the image title is not available, provide a brief description in square brackets. Lastly, always check your institution’s or publisher’s citation policy, as they may have specific requirements.

• Find the creator’s name, year, title/description, and URL.
• Add a text box for the citation on the slide.
• Format citation in APA style: (Creator’s Last Name, Year).

Frequently Asked Questions

What if i can’t find the image’s creation date.

If the date is not available, use “n.d.” which stands for “no date” in your citation.

Do I need to cite images that are common knowledge or in the public domain?

Yes, you should still cite these images to acknowledge the source, even if they don’t require permission to use.

Can I place the image citations on a separate slide at the end of the presentation?

While it’s more common to place citations directly on the slide with the image, you can include a separate reference slide at the end if you prefer.

How should I cite an image that I created myself?

If you created the image, simply note that it is your own work. You can use the caption “Image created by the author” or something similar.

What if the image is from a print source, not online?

Follow the same steps, but instead of a URL, include the publication information in your citation (e.g., book title, magazine name, page number).

Citing images in a PowerPoint presentation according to the APA guidelines is an essential skill that upholds academic integrity and respects the work of creators. Proper citations not only prevent plagiarism but also support your credibility as a presenter. Remember, whether the images are from the web, a book, or created by you, they deserve to be cited correctly.

By taking the time to include accurate citations, you enhance the quality and professionalism of your presentation. As we continue to rely on visual aids to communicate complex ideas, let’s give credit where credit is due and cite images diligently.

Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.

After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.

His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.

Read his full bio here.

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Using Images in Research and Presentations

• Finding Images
• Using Images

Why Do I Need to Cite Images?

Creative commons attribution.

Citing all your sources of information and creative work you use is part of academic integrity. You are giving credit where credit is due.

In academic work, images should be followed by and attribution or in text citation whether that be in a note or caption immediately following the image or at the bottom of a presentation slide. A full citation should be found in your Works Cited or Reference List, though you might separate them out into an Image Credit List, depending on the style of citation you are using.

The 7th edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association expended their explanations and examples of how to cite multimedia sources including multimedia materials. Examples of reference are found in Chapter 10 of the Manual and the following sections focus on multimedia sources

• 10.12 Audiovisual works (films, streaming videos, television series, etc.)
• 10.13 Audio works (music, podcast, radio broadcast, etc.)
• 10.14 Visual works (fine art, clip art, infographics, photographs, maps, etc.)
• 10.15 Social media (including Instagram posts).

A related section of the Manual is Chapter 7 which deals with the presentation of tables and figures, so the Manual shows you how images should be incorporated into your work in addition to how they should be cited; see Sample Figure 7.3 for how to include an attribution in the figure note.

Here is an example of how the following photograph (found through Pixabay) should be cited using the APA style.

stokpic. (2015, February 10). Blonde Girl Taking Photo [Photograph]. Pixabay. https://pixabay.com/photos/blonde-girl-taking-photo-629726/

Remember, the library has a copy of the Manual at the Reference Desk if you need to use it.

The 9th edition of the MLA Handbook Appendix 2 has several examples of works-cited-list entries and the examples of citing fine art and still images can be found on pages 331 - 333. The online  MLA Style Center  also has examples of image citations.

• Citations by Format | MLA Style Center Are you using any other types of information sources in your project? Find more examples of MLA citation styles here.

Here is an example of how the following photograph (found through Pixabay) should be cited using the MLA style.

stokpic. Blonde Girl Taking Photo. 10 February 2015.  Pixabay . pixabay.com/photos/blonde-girl-taking-photo-629726/

Remember, the library has a copy of the Handbook at the Reference Desk if you need to use it.

• Use & Remix - Creative Commons The "Use & remix" section of the Creative Commons website details how to properly attribute content licensed under a CC license. Attribution is a condition of all CC licenses. more info... less info... Creative Commons is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a globally-accessible public commons of knowledge and culture. They provide Creative Commons licenses and public domain tools that give every person and organization in the world a free, simple, and standardized way to grant copyright permissions for creative and academic works; ensure proper attribution; and allow others to copy, distribute, and make use of those works.
• << Previous: Using Images
• Last Updated: Mar 21, 2024 3:46 PM
• URL: https://libguides.umflint.edu/images

How to Cite Pictures in PowerPoint: Step-by-Step Guide

by Sam McKay, CFA | PowerPoint

When creating presentations, one of the most important aspects is to properly credit the sources of any images or graphics you include.

This not only respects the original creators’ work but also ensures you’re adhering to copyright laws.

To cite pictures in PowerPoint, you should:

Insert the picture in a PowerPoint slide.

Click the Insert tab and then click the Text Box icon.

Create a text box and align it under the picture.

Write your citation in the box and format it as desired.

Citing images in PowerPoint is crucial, as it adds credibility to your presentation and helps your audience locate the original source for more information.

Furthermore, properly citing images helps avoid plagiarism and copyright infringement issues.

In this article, we’ll go over how to properly cite images in PowerPoint, ensuring you maintain professionalism and integrity in your presentations.

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Step-by-Step Guide to Cite Pictures in PowerPoint

PowerPoint is a popular presentation software that allows you to create engaging slideshows for various purposes, such as education, business, and marketing.

To cite a picture in PowerPoint:

Step 1: Insert the Image

To insert an image in PowerPoint

Open the desired slide and click the Insert tab.

Click the Picture icon and select one of the 4 image source options.

Select an image and click Insert to add the image to the slide.

Step 2: Add a Text Box

To add a text box for your citation:

Click the Insert tab.

Click the Text Box icon.

Create a text box and align it under the image.

As you select images and cite them, make sure you check the fair use guidelines. For public domain or Creative Commons images, citation may not be required, but it’s best to always cite to ensure proper acknowledgment.

Now let’s look at some of the common citation styles.

Common Citation Styles

When adding pictures to your PowerPoint presentation, it’s essential to provide proper citations to give credit to the original creators and avoid copyright issues.

In this section, we’ll go over some of the most common citation styles for citing pictures in PowerPoint. Here are the 3 most common citation styles:

1. APA (American Psychological Association)

In APA style , you should include the author’s last name, the publication date, and the source of the image in the figure caption or notes section of the slide.

For example: (Smith, 2019).

2. MLA (Modern Language Association)

In MLA style , you should include the author’s last name and the page number of the source in the figure caption or notes section.

For example: (Smith 22).

In Chicago style , you should include the author’s last name, the date of publication, and the source of the image in the figure caption or notes section.

For example: (Smith 2019).

It’s essential to follow the specific guidelines for the citation style you are using. *

Always refer to the appropriate style manual for accurate information on citing images in PowerPoint presentations.

Best Practices for Citing Pictures in PowerPoint

When incorporating images into your PowerPoint presentations, it’s essential to acknowledge the creators and sources of these visuals properly.

Here are some best practices to ensure your citations are accurate and respectful:

Use Notes or a Separate Slide: Place source information in the presentation’s notes section or on a dedicated slide for citations to keep your slides clean.

Online Image Citations: For online images, include the image’s URL and the date you accessed it, ensuring viewers can trace the source.

Images from Databases: When using images from databases, mention the database name and any identification details like numbers or search terms.

Detailed Information: Provide essential details like the author’s name, image title, and other relevant information to fully acknowledge the source.

Following these practices helps maintain the integrity of your presentation while respecting copyright and the original creators.

Final Thoughts

As you continue to create engaging and informative presentations, you’ll likely come across many instances where you need to include images.

Citing pictures in PowerPoint is a crucial step in this process, ensuring that you respect the work of others and maintain the integrity of your content.

By following the guidelines and techniques outlined in this article, you can confidently add images to your PowerPoint presentations, knowing that you are properly crediting the sources and avoiding any potential copyright issues.

Remember to use high-quality images, and follow the appropriate citation style for your presentation.

This will not only enhance the visual appeal of your slides but also contribute to a more professional and credible presentation.

So, whether you’re a student, educator, or professional, the ability to cite images in PowerPoint is a valuable skill that demonstrates your commitment to ethical and responsible content creation.

To elevate your PowerPoint use, watch this video to learn how to use PowerPoint in your Power BI reports:

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basics of citing images in powerpoint.

To cite images in your presentation, follow these basics to give proper attribution:

Create a slide or notes section: Include the source information and citation in a separate slide or the notes section.

Provide source details: For images found online, include the website’s URL and the date you accessed the image.

For database images, include the database name and any relevant identification numbers or search terms.

Also, add the author’s name, image title, and any other pertinent information.

Follow citation styles: Adapt the citation style to match your academic institution’s guidelines, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago.

How can I insert images with citations in PowerPoint?

To insert images with citations in PowerPoint:

Insert the image: Go to the slide where you want to add the image and click “Insert” > “Pictures.”

Add the citation: After inserting the image, include the citation in the notes section or a separate slide.

This citation should provide the necessary details to credit the image’s source.

Is there a specific way to cite an image in PowerPoint using APA format?

When citing images using APA citation format, follow these steps:

Create a separate slide: Make a new slide to cite the image.

Include the necessary information: On the slide, provide the author’s name, the date of publication, the image title, the website’s URL, and the date you accessed the image.

Use in-text citations: For images used in the body of the presentation, include an in-text citation with the author’s last name and the year of publication.

How do I ensure that my PowerPoint images are properly cited and formatted?

To ensure that your PowerPoint images are correctly cited and formatted, follow these steps:

Follow the citation style guidelines: Use the appropriate citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, as required by your academic institution.

Double-check the source details: Verify that you’ve included all the necessary information, including the author’s name, the publication date, the image title, the website’s URL, and the date you accessed the image.

Consistently format your citations: Maintain a consistent format for all citations in your presentation to ensure a professional and organized look.

How do I properly reference and cite pictures in PowerPoint?

To properly reference and cite a picture in PowerPoint:

Create a separate slide or notes section: Include the source information and citation in a separate slide or the notes section.

Provide detailed source information: For online images, include the website’s URL and the date you accessed the image.

Also, add the author’s name, image title, and any other relevant information.

Follow your academic institution’s guidelines: Adapt the citation style to match your institution’s requirements, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago.

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Home Blog PowerPoint Tutorials How to Cite Pictures in PowerPoint

How to Cite Pictures in PowerPoint

Whether you like to create PowerPoint presentations from scratch or prefer using PowerPoint templates to design your slides, it’s pretty likely that you will be using a few pictures. Third-party images used in presentations should be duly cited, especially when attribution is mandatory. Citing pictures in PowerPoint requires knowing the licensing information and the format for the referencing format you are using.

How to Cite a Picture in PowerPoint

Identify the license of the picture.

Pictures can have different types of licenses attached to them. The given license is often mentioned on the website or below the picture. Some pictures are in the Public Domain, such as historical pictures of major events and famous people, the rights of which are waived off. In comparison, other licenses might require attribution to the author. The most common are Creative Commons licenses, which might or might not require mandatory attribution to the author.

Insert a Text box to Add Licensing Information

To add a license, you can add a text box below the image via Insert > Text Box .

Group the Image and Citation

You can group the image and citation together so that they can be adjusted when you need to move or resize the image. To group the image and cited text, select both the image and text together and right-click on either of the two slide objects. Select Group > Group to bind them together.

Once grouped together, the image and citation can be resized and moved on the slide together via drag and drop.

How to Cite Photos in PowerPoint using Different Referencing Styles

Below is a list of various citation methods you can use when citing images in PowerPoint. Since most images used in PowerPoint presentations are taken online from different websites, we have mentioned the method below to cite such images. For images taken from books, artwork, or maps, see the respective style guide to refer to the citation format.

Harvard Style

To cite an image taken from a webpage using the Harvard Referencing style, you must specify the author or authors, year of publication, title (in italics), publisher’s name, URL, and the date the image was accessed.

Format: Author’s Last name, First initials. (Year), title , image website’s name, viewed date, month, year <URL> Available at: URL. (Accessed: date).

Example: Moore, J 2022, 3D SWOT Analysis PowerPoint Template , image, SlideModel, viewed 11 November 2022, < https://cdn.slidemodel.com/wp-content/uploads/6324-01-3d-swot-analysis-1.jpg >.

MLA is another widely used referencing format, which is often used for citing research. Like other referencing formats, the citation in MLA depends upon where the image was originally viewed. In this case, we will demonstrate how to cite an image from a webpage using MLA style.

MLA Format: Author’s Last name, First name. “title or description of the image.” Website’s Name, Day, Month, Year, URL.

Example: Moore, John. “3D SWOT Analysis PowerPoint Template.” SlideModel , 22 Nov. 2022, slidemodel.com/wp-content/uploads/6324-01-3d-swot-analysis-1.jpg.

The American Psychological Association, APA style or APA format is widely used in academic writings such as journals, books, or articles. The citation style uses an author, and year format. Using APA style, you can cite images from web pages by following the example below.

APA Format: Author. (Year). Title of the image [image type]. Website. URL

Example: Moore, J. (2021). 3D SWOT Analysis PowerPoint Template [Clipart]. SlideModel. https://slidemodel.com/wp-content/uploads/6324-01-3d-swot-analysis-1.jpg

Chicago Style

When citing an image from an electronic source using the Chicago Style, use the full note when citing the image the first time and the concise note for citing the image after the first time. Moreover, you can use a bibliography to mention the cited sources at the end of your presentation.

Chicago Format: Below is the format for the full note, concise note, and bibliography format using Chicago Style.

Full Note: Author’s First name, Initials of the Last name, the title of the image, Year, URL.

Concise Note: Author’s Last name, the title of the image.

Bibliography: Author Last name, First name, or Initial. Title of the image. Year. URL.

Example: Below is an example of the full note, concise note, and bibliography format using the Chicago Style.

Full Note: John, M, 3D SWOT Analysis PowerPoint Template , 2021, https://slidemodel.com/wp-content/uploads/6324-01-3d-swot-analysis-1.jpg.

Concise Note: Moore, 3D SWOT Analysis PowerPoint Template .

Bibliography: Moore, John.  3D SWOT Analysis PowerPoint Template. 2021. https://slidemodel.com/wp-content/uploads/6324-01-3d-swot-analysis-1.jpg

Closing Thoughts

The use of citations for different types of images and where they are placed in the presentation can differ from one citation style to another. The above list provides a basic overview of how to cite images for each mentioned citation method. However, there might be additional requirements to cite an image. This is why referring to the respective citation style guide when referencing images is recommended. You can also use an online referencing web app to generate citations for your PowerPoint presentations.

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How to Cite a Picture in PowerPoint

Lee Stanton Lee Stanton is a versatile writer with a concentration on the software landscape, covering both mobile and desktop applications as well as online technologies. Read more March 7, 2023

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Graphics and pictures can make a presentation much more effective. Luckily, the internet is full of excellent images you can use for this purpose, but not all of them are free to use. However, when you decide to insert a licensed image into your presentation, citing its source and its creator is necessary.

In this article, you’ll find out why citing images in your presentations is important and learn how to do it properly.

Why Cite an Image?

Just because an image is available online, it doesn’t mean it’s free for use. In fact, the author or copyright holder of a picture can demand their work be taken down if used without permission. According to copyright laws, downloading and using images is illegal unless they are approved for use, and simply providing a link to the source page won’t resolve the issue. That’s why proper citing is important.

APA vs. MLA vs. Chicago Style

There are several styles of citing images. All of them include references and textual citations, but they vary format-wise. Here are citation and reference formats for the most common styles:

The citation provided in the text should contain the author’s last name and the year when the image was published in brackets, i.e., (Author, year).

Reference should include:

• Author’s last name and first initial, separated by a comma
• The year of publishing in brackets
• The title of the image and, in square brackets, its format
• The name of the website from which the image was taken

All the points should be divided by a full stop.

The citation in the text will only contain the last name of the author in brackets.

Reference should look like this:

• Author’s last, a comma, and then first name
• Image title in quotation marks
• Site name, written in italics , followed by the date of citation (in DD-Month-YYYY format), and the URL, all separated by commas

Chicago Style:

Chicago style might not require a reference entry; a citation within the text might be enough. However, if you need to insert a complete citation, the entry will include:

• Last and first name of the author, interrupted by a comma
• The title of the image in italics
• Date in Month-DD, YYYY format
• Image format
• Site name and URL with a comma in between

You should separate each point with a full stop.

Now that you understand the different citation styles and how they should look, here’s how you cite a photo on different devices.

How to Cite a Photo in PowerPoint on a Windows PC

On a Windows PC, you can use the desktop or online PowerPoint version. The method for inserting citations will be the same:

• Make the font italic by selecting the I button under Font or pressing Ctrl+ I on your keyboard.

How to Cite a Photo in PowerPoint on a Mac

To cite a photo on a Mac, follow this method:

• Click the I icon located under the font type drop-down menu or press Command + I on the keyboard to make the text italic.

How to Cite a Photo in PowerPoint on an iPhone or iPad

You can cite a photo in PowerPoint on your iPhone using the same method that applies to the iPad:

How to Cite a Photo in PowerPoint on the Android App

To cite a photo on the Android app, follow these steps:

Use Images in Your Presentations the Right Way

Citing photos in your PowerPoint presentations doesn’t require a lot of extra work, but it makes the presentation much more ethical and professional. Besides that, you might avoid any copyright issues if you cite the photos you use properly.

Now that you’ve learned how to insert correct citations, you can create an effective and interesting presentation with the help of illustrative photos. All that’s left to do is pick the best possible images, and your presentation will immediately be enriched.

Have you managed to cite photos in PowerPoint successfully? Which citing style did you use? Tell us in the comments section below.

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How to cite images in PowerPoint

Images can enhance the impact of your professional presentations. You may choose the ideal photos to assist in captivating your readers and giving meaning to your words, but it is also critical to acknowledge the picture’s owner. Downloading and using photos without copyright permission is unauthorized, and simply providing a link to the original website does not fix the issue. That is why correct citation is essential. In the PowerPoint tutorial , we will explain how to cite images in PowerPoint and provide some citation guidelines. There are multiple ways to cite an image . All of these ways have different types of references, and their respective textual citations are also unique. 

The Most Commonly Used Formats For Doing Citations & References

The APA style citation is written as follows:

• The initials and the last name of the image’s author are separated using a comma
• Use brackets to write the year in which that image was published
• The image’s title and the format of it to be included in square brackets.
• The URL of the website where the picture was obtained
• Consider using a full stop in order to split all of the pointers.

In this style of citation, you only need to mention the last name of the image author that too inside brackets.

The citation should look something like this:

• Author’s surname name, followed by a comma, and then the first name
• Write the title of the image inside the quotation marks
• Write the website name in italic, then mention the date of citation (using the DD-Month-YYYY format) along with the URL. Use commas to separate all these fields.

Chicago Style

Instead of using a reference entry, in Chicago style, writing the citation inside the text will be more than sufficient. If you must provide a complete citation, the item will contain the following:

• Author’s last and first names, separated by a comma
• Use italics to write the title of the image
• Consider using the date format as Month-DD-YYYY
• You also need to mention the format of the image
• Now, mention the website’s name followed by its URL. Use a comma to separate both of these fields
• Lastly, you should use full stops after every point

In case, you want to learn more about citations in detail, you can refer to Bibliography.com

So, now that you have understood different citation formats and how to write them, it’s time to learn how to cite a picture in PowerPoint.

Steps To Cite Images In PowerPoint

Firstly, you should look for the licensing information of the pictures. The copyright for your chosen picture will most likely contain instructions on how to credit it in your presentation. Locate the license and read the terms and conditions. Some licenses declare explicitly that no credit is required.

In that case, you can use the picture without mentioning the author. Others provide guidelines on how to credit the owner appropriately. If you don’t have license information, presume the picture is copyrighted and intended to attribute correctly.

The structure for image citations differs based on the style guide you choose. 

So, here are the general steps to cite a picture in PowerPoint :

Step 1: Open a blank slide in PowerPoint and delete the text placeholders.

Step 2: Click ‘Insert’ at the top of the PowerPoint toolbar. Select ‘Picture’ and go to the picture on your desktop. Insert the picture by double-clicking it. Place it anywhere you like.

Step 3: Click ‘Insert’ again. Choose the ‘Text box’ from the alternatives that appear. It’ll be in a drop-down menu or on the toolbar with an icon next to it. Draw your text box and move it directly under the picture with your mouse. Try to align the text box as closely as possible to the picture.

Step 4: Drag your mouse to pick the picture and the text box. When the menu opens, right-click and select ‘Group.’ Then, click ‘Group’ again. This stage is optional, although it may make revising your presentation simpler.

Step 5: Repeat these steps for all the pictures in your presentation. So, now you’ve cited all your photos. Remember to keep the figure number up to date. Check for accuracy by revisiting these stages and examples throughout.

Tips For Citing Images In PowerPoint

Citations should be used with care since they are essential to a professional and ethical presentation. Here are some tips on how to cite an image in PowerPoint :

• Proofread Properly: Make sure to verify your spelling and grammar. Make certain that the authors’ names are correctly spelled. Comparing your credits to an example cite that adheres to the same style standard may be beneficial. Check that your punctuation is in the proper place.
• Refer to your style guide: If you get perplexed, consult your style guide. MLA, APA, and Chicago-style rules are available online and in print. Ensure you cite reliable sources, preferably the style guide or an academic library or writing center.
• Use trusted websites for pictures .: Citations may be simpler to create when looking for photos on sites that make license, copyright, and author information readily available. Licenses and copyright details are often available from familiar stock picture sources. Photos may also be obtained from library databases or reputable media.

If you wish to make certain changes to your images for citation, you can use the morphing technique in PowerPoint to make it more appealing to the audience.

Watch this video to know the steps more clearly

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need to cite clipart in PowerPoint?

If the clip art is unique to PowerPoint and is internal, you can use it without providing a complete citation. APA demands In-text citations that specify the software the image was created using. PowerPoint also has a feature that allows the user to find a clipart through a search engine. Always cite your image if you download it through a search engine.

Do you need to cite copyright-free images?

Even if an image isn’t copyrighted, giving the author credit and mentioning the website where you found it is always polite. Give credit, but omit the copyright disclosure at the conclusion. Even if you utilize a Creative Commons license, there can be additional attribution requirements. Keep in mind to properly study each license.

How can you cite images scanned from a book?

Most style manuals cite images from books similarly to digital photos. You could substitute the book, edition, and page number for the website’s title and URL. Refer to your particular style guide for formatting guidelines.

Wrapping It Up

Citing images in PowerPoint presentations isn’t tricky but makes your presentations more virtuous and proficient. Apart from that, nobody can impose copyright restrictions on you if you follow the citation formats and cite the picture properly.

Now that you know how to incorporate image citations correctly, you can use captivating and outstanding photos to create successful presentations. The only thing left to do is choose the most amazing photos possible, and your presentation will instantly become more impressive. You can also make your presentations more attractive by using compelling PowerPoint templates and google slides templates.

People Are Also Reading:

• Learn How To Make An Image Transparent In Google Slides
• Learn How To Remove The Background From An Image
• Learn How To Add Pictures To PowerPoint Using Stock Images

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How to Cite and Reference Images in PowerPoint Presentations

Using images in PowerPoint presentations can make them more visually appealing and help communicate key information. However, it is important to properly cite and reference any images you use that you did not create yourself. Failing to do so could constitute copyright infringement.

This article provides best practices on how to cite and reference images in PowerPoint presentations.

Table of Contents

Why Citing Images is Important

1. identify key details, 2. insert image caption, 3. include full reference, in-text image citation, image reference slide, speaker notes reference, tips for effectively using images.

There are several key reasons why you should cite images used in PowerPoint presentations:

• Avoids copyright infringement: Properly citing images gives credit to the original creator and demonstrates the image is used legally. Many images found online are protected by copyright and require permission or a license for reuse.
• Enhances credibility: Correctly citing sources, including images, lends credibility and shows you have conducted thorough research.
• Provides helpful information to the audience: Citations allow viewers to locate the original image if desired. This is especially useful for graphs, charts, or data-driven images.
• Meets academic integrity standards: Students must cite all sources, including images, to meet academic integrity policies. Failing to do so could constitute plagiarism.

How to Cite Images in Presentations

To cite an image, you need to identify key details including:

• Creator’s name
• Title of work
• Date of creation
• Where you accessed the image

This information allows viewers to locate and verify the source.

The easiest way to cite images in PowerPoint is by using the built-in “Insert Caption” feature:

• Insert image onto slide
• Right click image and select Insert Caption
• Enter image details into caption box

Captions should be brief but include:

• Figure number e.g. Figure 1
• Title/description
• Attribution details

In addition to the caption, you should include a full reference to the image source. There are two options for doing this:

• Reference slide: Create a dedicated reference slide at the end of the presentation. List the full details for each image source, using numbering to link to your captions.
• Slide notes: Add the detailed reference information to the speaker notes section of the slide. Keep notes hidden from audience view.

The reference should include all citation details per the style guide you are following e.g. APA, MLA, Chicago.

Image Reference Examples

Here are examples of how to correctly reference images in PowerPoint presentations:

Figure 1. The Scream by Edvard Munch, 1893, [1]

• Figure 1: Munch, E. (1893). [The Scream] [Oil, tempera, and pastel on cardboard] [29 7⁄8 x 35 3⁄4 in.]. National Gallery, Oslo, Norway. https://www.edvardmunch.org/the-scream.jsp

Figure 1. The Scream by Edvard Munch, 1893

Full reference: Munch, E. (1893). The Scream [Oil, tempera, and pastel on cardboard] (29 7⁄8 x 35 3⁄4 in.). National Gallery, Oslo, Norway. https://www.edvardmunch.org/the-scream.jsp

• Choose high quality, relevant images that enhance your content
• Use a consistent design style and color palette
• Organize images so they align with your text
• Provide attribution for all images not created by you
• Proofread to check image citations are complete and consistent

Using visuals effectively is key for engaging presentations. However, you have an ethical and legal responsibility to cite any images used that you did not create.

Follow the recommendations in this article to seamlessly cite and reference images in your PowerPoint presentations. Properly attributing visuals demonstrates academic and professional integrity.

[1] Munch, E. (1893). The Scream [Oil, tempera, and pastel on cardboard] (29 7⁄8 x 35 3⁄4 in.). National Gallery, Oslo, Norway. https://www.edvardmunch.org/the-scream.jsp

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Citing Business Sources in APA Style

7. citing sources in presentations.

• 1. About this guide
• 2. Citing references in-text
• 3. Citing sources in your reference list
• 4. Reference List Examples: Brock Library Business Databases
• 5. Reference List Examples: Statistical Sources
• 6. Reference List Examples: Audiovisual Sources

7.3: Using Reference Lists in Presentations

7.4: apa style powerpoint help.

• The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA Style) was designed to assist writers in preparing research papers (such as journal articles) and therefore does not actually contain any guidelines on preparing powerpoint presentations according to APA Style.
• Typically, if you are required to create a presentation according to APA Style, you should clarify with your professor if he/she actually just expects you to put your in-text citations and references in APA Style.

7.1: In-text citations in Presentations

• You can cite references within the text of your presentation slide using the same APA format for in-text citations (Author, Date) as in a written essay.
• Remember to cite sources for direct quotations, paraphrased materials, and sources of facts (such as market share data in the example slide).
• Your Reference List must include the sources cited on your presentation slides.

7.2: Using Images on Slides

If you use images, such as photographs or clipart, on your slides, you should also credit the source of the image. Do not reproduce images without permission. There are sources for clipart and images that are "public use" according to Creative Commons licensing such as:

• Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/creativecommons/
• Google Advanced Image Search allows you so filter results by usage rights (e.g., free to use or share):  https://www.google.com/advanced_image_search
• ClipSafari:  https://www.clipsafari.com
• Openclipart.org:  https://openclipart.org/
• Noun Project:  https://thenounproject.com   (free membership, must give credit to creator of icon following a specific format)

Photographs are treated as figures in APA Style. Therefore, the citation for the source of the image is included as a footnote in the figure caption underneath the photograph which includes the figure number and a description. The source of the image obtained is attributed using the following model:

Figure 1. Blah blah blah. From Title of Image , by Author, Year. Retrieved from URL.

Figure 1. Photograph of a sculpture in Cupertino, California. From Infinite Loop II by Kurafire (2007, January 3).  Retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/kurafire/343629962/.

Another option for citing image sources is to create a separate slide titled "Photo credits" or "Image Sources". For more assistance on the various ways to cite images in presentations (but not necessarily in APA format), see:

• Image Citation Guide (UBC Copyright Office)
• How to credit photos (Photoshare.org). Provides examples of various ways to credit image sources in Powerpoint, on webpages, and in print materials.
• How to cite clip art or stock image references (APA Style website) Consult the APA Style site for the latest guidance on how to cite images according to the 7th edition.

Option 1: Create a References handout (recommended)

Option 2: Create a References slide (if you only have a few items in your list)

• use a large enough font (e.g., 24 points)
• limit to 12 lines of text on each slide

• Power up your PowerPoint (gradPSYCH at APA.org) Seven research-backed tips for effective presentations. Includes links to digital extras: "the worst PowerPoint presentation ever made" and "Comedian Don McMillan's PowerPoint pet peeves".
• << Previous: 6. Reference List Examples: Audiovisual Sources
• Last Updated: Apr 17, 2024 8:34 AM
• URL: https://researchguides.library.brocku.ca/APABusiness

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APA 7th Edition Guide

• Citing Sources in PowerPoint Presentations
• APA Paper Basics
• Preventing Plagiarism
• Academic Integrity Video
• Setting Up Your Paper
• In-Text Citations
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Citing Sources in PowerPoint Slides

• PowerPoint - In-text Citations
• PowerPoint - References List

Note:  APA does not have specific rules about the format of PowerPoint slides.  Rasmussen University does have recommended guidelines outlined below and in the attached PPT presentation.

PowerPoint slides  may   need citations, depending on what type of information is included on the slide.

If the text on a slide is a quote (someone else's words, verbatim) or someone else's ideas in the presenter's own words, then a citation is needed.

If the text placed on a slide is simply a word or phrase that represents a topic that the presenter will be discussing in greater detail, then a citation is not needed.

The table below includes two PowerPoint slides (left side). The column on the right tells whether or not the information would need to be cited and why.

Speaker Notes:  Some assignments require text in the Speaker Notes area of the PowerPoint slide. If information from a source is quoted, summarized, or paraphrased in that area, an in-text citation and reference will likely be required. Ask your instructor for clarification.

• Presentations & APA Citation Style at Rasmussen University Great resource to share with students if they are having struggles with APA in PPTs.

PowerPoint Slides - References

There are two ways to include the Reference list in your presentation:

• Coordinating reference lists are typically handed out during or after the presentation either in print if presenting in person, or electronically if presenting online. This is the preferred method of including a Reference list of the sources cited in your slide deck.
• Include a Reference list in the last slide of the presentation. This is an acceptable method if there are not many resources to include. Avoid adding so many resources to the list that the type is not legible to those attending the presentation

Creating the Reference List Slide

• If you use outside sources in your presentation (noted in your in-text citations), you must cite those sources on a References page/slide.
• Your Reference page can be created in NoodleTools, exported to Microsoft Word, and distributed or submitted with your slides to those who attend your presentation. Ask your instructor if they would like a Reference slide as the last slide of your presentation. Note that you may need more than one slide depending on how many references are needed.

See the slide deck below for more information.

• << Previous: Missing Reference Information
• Next: Annotated Bibliographies >>
• Last Updated: Apr 19, 2024 10:55 AM
• URL: https://guides.rasmussen.edu/apa

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Reference List: Online Media

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Article in Electronic Journal

When citing an article in an electronic journal, include a DOI if one is associated with the article.

DOIs may not always be available. In these cases, use a URL. Many academic journals provide stable URLs that function similarly to DOIs. These are preferable to ordinary URLs copied and pasted from the browser's address bar.

How To Do In-Text Citations in MLA Format: A Quick Guide for Students

An in-text citation is a reference to information originating from another source. In-text citations must be used when you summarize, quote, paraphrase or refer to another source within a written document, such as academic literature. 

In-text citations are essential in academic writing. Without them, how would readers verify the information is reliable and accurate? Trustworthy authors include their sources for verifiable information rather than opinions so readers know where the evidence for claims can be explored further.

The Modern Language Association manages MLA style standards with the purpose to “strengthen the study and teaching of language and literature” and standardize how information sources are credited in scholarly writing. Not only does the MLA recommend proper citation format, but it also suggests proper general formatting, including document spacing, margins and font size.

As you begin authoring scholarly works, you’ll find the need to credit sources. Use this quick guide to learn how to do in-text citations in MLA format.

What is MLA format?

How to do in-text citations in mla, how to do a works cited page in mla, common challenges and solutions, tips for effective in-text citations.

MLA citation style is a system for crediting sources in scholarly writing and has been widely used in classrooms, journals and the press since 1931. What began with a three-page style sheet for the MLA’s scholarly journal became a uniform writing style preferred by academics and the editorial media everywhere.

Since its inception, the in-text citation style has changed from a recommended combination of footnotes and in-text citations in MLA format. The 1951 style guide suggested : “If the reference is brief, insert it, within parentheses, in the text itself . . . ; if it is lengthy, put it in a [foot]note.” As technology and society changed, so did the MLA style. In 1995, the document added recommendations for citing CD-ROMs and online databases. In 2016, the MLA published one of the most modern versions of the MLA Handbook , wherein in-text citations in MLA style should now be written according to a template of core elements.

The modern-day components of an in-text citation in MLA format, as of the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook , include:

• Author’s name
• Page numbers (if applicable)

These short in-text citations serve as references to a Works Cited list, which should follow a written piece of work and list all sources used in detail.

Authors who correctly use in-text citations in MLA style will prove their credibility, integrity and responsibility to share accurate and reliable information and simultaneously protect themselves from stealing sources and ideas from other writers, also known as plagiarism. Plagiarism is a severe offense , and many institutions have strict rules against the practice .

Now that you understand the importance of citations let’s review how to use in-text citations in MLA style. When referring to another author’s work in your own written text, you must use parenthetical citations, including the source in parentheses within the sentence that refers to the work. 

If a source does not have page numbers, use another numbering system, such as chapters, sections, scenes or articles that are explicitly numbered. If there are no numbered divisions within the work, simply cite the author’s name.

The basic format for in-text citations in MLA writings is as follows:

• The pail of water was at the top of the hill, which Jack and Jill decided to climb (Mother Goose 1) .

If including a direct quote from a source, enclose the entire quote within quotation marks to avoid confusing the reader. The in-text citation should fall outside the quotation marks at the end of the sentence before the sentence’s period. Paraphrased information does not need quotation marks but does need proper in-text citation.

It should be noted that any information included in your in-text citations must refer to the source information on the Works Cited page listed at the end of your document.

If you’re wondering how to list the references on the Works Cited page, the format varies depending on the type, such as a book or a website.

How to cite a book in MLA

• Author last name, first name. Title. Publisher, year.

How to cite an article in MLA

• Author last name, first name. “Article title.” Publication, volume/issue, publication month. Year, page numbers. Database, reference URL.

How to cite a website in MLA

• Author last name, first name. “Title.” Publication, publication month. Year, web page URL.

While constructing your paper, you may encounter a few citation challenges, such as a source with multiple authors or no known author. Though this can be confusing, this is how to use in-text citations in MLA style for challenging situations.

How to cite multiple authors in MLA

To write an in-text citation in MLA format for a source with multiple authors , simply list each author’s last name before the page number. Sources with more than two authors should cite the first author, followed by “et al.” For example:

• 2 authors: (Hall and Oates 1)
• 3+ authors: (Hall et al. 1)

How to cite sources with no author in MLA

Sources with no author must match the first listed element within its Works Cited entry. For example:

• In-text citation: (Baa, Baa, Black Sheep 0:15)
• Works Cited entry: “Baa, Baa, Black Sheep.” Spotify . https://open.spotify.com/track/1Zpe8ef70Wx20Bu2mLdXc1?si=7TlgCyj1SYmP6K-uy4isuQ

How to cite indirect or secondary sources in MLA

A secondary source is a publication that provides second-hand information from other researchers. You may use secondary sources in your research, though it’s best practice to search for the primary source that supplied the first-hand information, so cite it directly.

If you don’t have access to the original source, include the original author and the author of the secondary source , with the abbreviation “qtd. in” indicating where you accessed the secondary quote. “Qtd. in” stands for “quoted in.” For example:

• (qtd. in Baa, Baa, Black Sheep 0:15)

Using et al. in MLA citations

As described above, et al. is used instead of listing all names of three or more authors, editors or contributors within your citations. It can also cite collections of essays, stories or poems with three or more contributors. When using et al., you should always use the last name of the first writer listed on the source. For example:

• (Earth et al. “September” 0:15)
• Contributors: Earth, Wind and Fire

The most crucial part of in-text citations in MLA style is to keep a consistent and accurate format within the entire body of work. Always use the same punctuation within the in-text citations and the same formatting for sources of the same type. Ensure that double-checking citations is part of your overall proofreading process. All citations, like the written work, should be precise and error-free.

Various tools exist to help you collect and manage your sources and citations. Popular tools include Zotero , EndNote and RefWorks . These tools can create citations for you and keep track of your research documents so you can reference them again if needed. It’s wise to track your sources as they’re included in your writing rather than compiling and citing them when finished.

More resources for writing in MLA format

For the most up-to-date in-text citation information, refer to the MLA Handbook , which can be found online, in bookstores and libraries. The most recent edition of the MLA Handbook is the 9th edition, published in spring 2021.

The MLA also operates the MLA Handbook Plus , a subscription-based digital platform that offers all of the content included in the print edition, plus annual updates and valuable resources, and can be accessed anywhere, whether you’re traveling, at home or in the classroom.

The MLA Style Center offers free online sources on the official MLA style, including templates, questions and answers and advice.

Furman University offers trained consultants for students on campus to provide one-on-one or small-group assistance for writing projects at the Writing & Media Lab (WML). You can make an appointment with a WML Consultant or stop by the James B. Duke Library in the Center for Academic Success (room 002) for on-demand help (subject to scheduling).

The Writing & Media Lab can help with many tasks related to student writing and multimedia projects, including:

• Brainstorming a paper or project
• Outlining your ideas
• Reading through your writing
• Creating a presentation or poster
• Helping you practice your presentation
• Planning a video or podcast
• Revising, proofreading, or editing

Mastering the art of in-text citations in MLA format will ensure that you, as an academic author, will portray yourself as a serious, responsible and factual writer who uses accurate and reliable sources.

The perspectives and thoughts shared in the Furman Blog belong solely to the author and may not align with the official stance or policies of Furman University. All referenced sources were accurate as of the date of publication.

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How to Make a “Good” Presentation “Great”

• Guy Kawasaki

Remember: Less is more.

A strong presentation is so much more than information pasted onto a series of slides with fancy backgrounds. Whether you’re pitching an idea, reporting market research, or sharing something else, a great presentation can give you a competitive advantage, and be a powerful tool when aiming to persuade, educate, or inspire others. Here are some unique elements that make a presentation stand out.

• Fonts: Sans Serif fonts such as Helvetica or Arial are preferred for their clean lines, which make them easy to digest at various sizes and distances. Limit the number of font styles to two: one for headings and another for body text, to avoid visual confusion or distractions.
• Colors: Colors can evoke emotions and highlight critical points, but their overuse can lead to a cluttered and confusing presentation. A limited palette of two to three main colors, complemented by a simple background, can help you draw attention to key elements without overwhelming the audience.
• Pictures: Pictures can communicate complex ideas quickly and memorably but choosing the right images is key. Images or pictures should be big (perhaps 20-25% of the page), bold, and have a clear purpose that complements the slide’s text.
• Layout: Don’t overcrowd your slides with too much information. When in doubt, adhere to the principle of simplicity, and aim for a clean and uncluttered layout with plenty of white space around text and images. Think phrases and bullets, not sentences.

As an intern or early career professional, chances are that you’ll be tasked with making or giving a presentation in the near future. Whether you’re pitching an idea, reporting market research, or sharing something else, a great presentation can give you a competitive advantage, and be a powerful tool when aiming to persuade, educate, or inspire others.

• Guy Kawasaki is the chief evangelist at Canva and was the former chief evangelist at Apple. Guy is the author of 16 books including Think Remarkable : 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference.

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How to Reference Pictures in PowerPoint

If you’re creating a PowerPoint presentation that includes images, it’s important to properly reference them to give credit where credit is due. In this article, we’ll explore the best practices for citing images in PowerPoint, as well as the risks of not doing so. We’ll also provide tips for finding the source of an image and creating a bibliography or works cited page.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Importance of Picture References in PowerPoint Presentations

Referencing images in PowerPoint presentations is important for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it’s a matter of intellectual honesty and academic integrity. Plagiarism, whether intentional or unintentional, can have serious consequences in academic, professional, and legal settings. Additionally, by referencing images correctly, you can help ensure that the creators of those images receive proper credit for their work.

Another reason why referencing images in PowerPoint presentations is important is that it can help you avoid copyright infringement. Using images without permission or proper attribution can result in legal action and financial penalties. By including references for all images used in your presentation, you can demonstrate that you have obtained the necessary permissions or are using the images under fair use guidelines.

Best Practices for Citing Images in PowerPoint

When referencing images in PowerPoint, the first step is to determine the source of the image. This may be a website, a book, a journal article, or any other type of publication. Once you’ve identified the source, you should include the following information in your reference:

• Title of the image
• Title of the publication (if applicable)
• Publisher (if applicable)
• Date of publication (if applicable)
• URL or other information for accessing the image

It’s important to use correct citation formats, such as APA or MLA, depending on the requirements of your assignment or publication. Additionally, you should be consistent with your citation style throughout the entire presentation.

Another important consideration when citing images in PowerPoint is to ensure that you have permission to use the image. Many images are protected by copyright laws, and using them without permission can result in legal consequences. To avoid this, you can either obtain permission from the copyright holder or use images that are in the public domain or licensed under Creative Commons. It’s also a good idea to provide attribution for the image, even if it’s not required, as a way to acknowledge the creator and show respect for their work.

Tips for Properly Crediting Images in Your Presentation

When including images in your PowerPoint presentation, it’s important to not only reference them correctly, but also to give credit to the creator of the image in the actual slide. This can be done by including a caption or by adding the creator’s name or source directly on the image. By doing so, you are giving proper credit to the creator and also making it clear to your audience where the image came from.

It’s also important to note that not all images are free to use. Some images may require permission or a license to use, especially if they are copyrighted. It’s best to do your research and make sure you have the proper permissions before using an image in your presentation. There are also many websites that offer free, royalty-free images that you can use without worry. Some popular ones include Unsplash, Pexels, and Pixabay.

The Risks of Not Referencing Pictures in PowerPoint

Not referencing images in your PowerPoint presentation can have serious consequences. For example, if you use an image without permission or proper citation and it turns out to be under copyright protection, you could be infringing on the creator’s rights and could face legal action. Additionally, by not referencing images, you are not showing proper respect for the work of others, which can impact your credibility and reputation.

Furthermore, not referencing images can also lead to confusion and misunderstandings among your audience. Without proper attribution, your audience may assume that the images are your own, which can be misleading and unethical. Referencing images also allows your audience to easily access the source of the information, which can be helpful for further research or fact-checking.

How to Find the Source of an Image for Proper Attribution

There are a number of tools and resources available for finding the source of an image. One of the easiest is to use a reverse image search engine such as TinEye or Google Images. By uploading or dragging and dropping the image, you can find information about where the image came from and how to properly reference it. Additionally, you can use bibliographic databases or other online resources to locate the publication or website where the image was originally published.

Another way to find the source of an image is to use social media platforms. Many images are shared on social media, and by tracing the original post or user who shared the image, you can often find the source. You can also try reaching out to the person who posted the image and ask for the source or permission to use it.

It’s important to note that simply finding the source of an image is not enough for proper attribution. You must also properly cite the source in your work, following the appropriate citation style guidelines. This includes providing the author’s name, title of the work, publication information, and any other relevant details. Failing to properly attribute an image can result in plagiarism or copyright infringement, so it’s important to take the time to do it correctly.

The Correct Format for Listing Picture References in PowerPoint

When listing picture references in PowerPoint, it’s important to follow the correct format for your citation style. In general, you’ll want to include the author, title, and publication information in a standard bibliographic format. You can include this information on a separate slide or at the end of your presentation in a bibliography or works cited page. Be sure to also include in-text citations or footnotes to show where each image was used within the presentation.

It’s also important to consider the copyright status of the images you use in your PowerPoint presentation. Make sure you have the necessary permissions or licenses to use the images, and give proper credit to the original source. Using copyrighted images without permission can result in legal consequences.

Another tip for listing picture references in PowerPoint is to be consistent with your formatting. Use the same citation style throughout your presentation and make sure all the information is accurate and complete. This will help your audience easily locate the sources of the images and verify the information you’ve presented.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Referencing Pictures in Your Presentation

One of the most common mistakes when referencing pictures in PowerPoint presentations is not providing enough information about the source. Be sure to include all relevant information, including the author, title, source, date of publication, and any other relevant details. Additionally, be consistent in your citation style throughout the presentation. Another mistake to avoid is using images that are under copyright protection without permission, which can lead to legal issues.

Another mistake to avoid when referencing pictures in your presentation is using low-quality images. Low-quality images can make your presentation look unprofessional and can be difficult for your audience to see and understand. It is important to use high-quality images that are clear and visually appealing. You can find high-quality images from reputable sources such as stock photo websites or by taking your own photographs. By using high-quality images, you can enhance the overall quality of your presentation and make it more engaging for your audience.

Using Copyright-Free Images to Avoid Legal Issues

To avoid legal issues with copyrighted images, it’s best to either use images that are in the public domain or that are licensed under Creative Commons. There are a number of websites that offer free or low-cost images that are available for public use, such as Unsplash, Pexels, and Pixabay. When using these images, be sure to still provide proper credit and attribution to the creator.

It’s important to note that not all images found on the internet are free to use, even if they don’t have a copyright symbol or watermark. Some images may be protected under other forms of intellectual property, such as trademark or publicity rights. It’s always best to do your research and ensure that you have the proper permissions before using any image in your work.

Adding Captions and Descriptions to Referenced Pictures in PowerPoint

In addition to referencing images correctly, it’s helpful to add captions or descriptions to images in your PowerPoint presentation. This can provide context for the image and help your audience understand its relevance to your presentation. Additionally, it can make it easier to remember where the image came from and how to properly reference it later.

When adding captions or descriptions to images in your PowerPoint presentation, it’s important to keep them concise and informative. Avoid using vague or generic descriptions, and instead, use specific details that highlight the key points of the image. You can also use captions to add a bit of humor or personality to your presentation, but be sure to keep it appropriate and relevant to the topic at hand.

How to Create a Bibliography or Works Cited Page for Picture References

When creating a bibliography or works cited page for picture references in PowerPoint, you’ll want to follow the standard format for your citation style. This will typically include the author, title, source, date of publication, and any other relevant details. You can include this information on a separate slide or at the end of your presentation. Be sure to also include in-text citations or footnotes to show where each image was used within the presentation.

Tools and Resources for Properly Referencing Pictures in PowerPoint

There are a number of tools and resources available for properly referencing pictures in PowerPoint presentations. One helpful resource is the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL), which provides detailed guides to citation styles such as APA and MLA. Additionally, there are a number of citation management software programs available, such as Zotero and EndNote, that can help you organize your references and format them correctly.

Best Ways to Organize and Manage Your Picture References in PowerPoint

Organizing and managing picture references in PowerPoint can be a challenge, especially if you have a large number of images to reference. One helpful tip is to keep a list of all your sources and their relevant information in a separate document or spreadsheet. This can make it easier to keep track of the sources you’ve used and ensure that you’re providing proper credit and attribution. Additionally, you can use tools within PowerPoint, such as the Notes section or slide layouts, to help organize your references within the presentation itself.

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