Answered By: Martyn Hurst
Last Updated: Dec 02, 2023     Views: 146

If the item you are referencing has several authors, you can sometimes replace some of the author names with et al. (meaning, 'and others'). The number of authors you include in your in-text citations and reference list varies depending on the referencing style you are using.

For example, with Cite Them Right Harvard:

  • In-text citation: use et al. where your reference has four or more authors
  • Reference List: record all authors. Use et al. only if there are 10 or more authors.

The referencing style sheets on our Referencing Guide provide further information on using et al within different referencing styles. You can also find information on using et al. correctly via Cite Them Right.