How to properly handle the citation between e-books and traditional books?

E-books and printed books can both be cited effectively by employing established academic citation styles consistently, ensuring accurate attribution regardless of format. The core principle is the same: identifying the author, title, publication details, and specific location of the cited information. Key considerations include accurately identifying the specific edition and format (e-book or print) used, providing persistent location identifiers like stable page numbers (if available), DOIs, or chapter/section titles for e-books lacking traditional pagination, and consulting the relevant style guide (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) for precise formatting requirements regarding inclusion of database/retailer names and URLs. It is crucial to consistently apply the chosen citation style and verify all details directly against the source material. When citing, first identify the source format (print book, PDF e-book, web-based e-book platform). Apply the rules of your required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.), carefully noting whether it requires specification of "[Print]" or "[E-book]". For location, use traditional page numbers for print and PDFs; for unstable e-book formats, use chapter/section titles or paragraph numbers, per your style guide. Include necessary identifiers like DOI or URL/retailer where applicable. Maintain rigorous consistency throughout your reference list and in-text citations to uphold academic integrity and allow readers reliable access to your sources. This practice ensures proper attribution and supports scholarly communication across both physical and digital mediums.