What information needs to be provided when referencing a web page?

When referencing a web page, specific core bibliographic elements must be provided to accurately identify the source and facilitate retrieval. Adherence to a consistent citation style is essential. Essential components typically include the author(s), the publication date of the page or its latest revision, the full title of the specific page or document, the name of the overall website (if distinct from the title), and the complete URL (Uniform Resource Locator). Crucially, the date you accessed the page must always be included due to the potential for web content to change or disappear. Verify citation style guidelines, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, for precise formatting requirements, including order and punctuation. Prioritize citing stable URLs like DOIs or permalinks when available. Providing this complete citation information promotes academic integrity by allowing readers to locate and evaluate the original source material. It demonstrates the validity of your research and supports evidence-based arguments. Omitting necessary details risks accusations of inadequate scholarship and complicates source verification. Always confirm URLs for accuracy directly prior to publication.