When citing an article without a DOI number, how should I handle it?

When citing academic articles lacking a Digital Object Identifier (DOI), viable alternatives exist using other persistent access points. Ensure the reference remains verifiable and adheres to your chosen style guide. Key principles include prioritizing the article's official URL from the publisher or journal website over database URLs, due to their greater inherent persistence. Database URLs (e.g., from EBSCO, ProQuest) are acceptable as a last resort but are often unstable; include an accessed date and note the database name if used. Verify the specific requirements of the citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) regarding URL formatting, truncation, and accessibility requirements. Persistent URLs (PURLs) or handles (like JSTOR's stable links) are preferred over basic URLs when available. Locate the article on the original journal's or publisher's website and use that URL first. If unavailable, use the specific stable link provided by your library's subscribed database, including the access date (e.g., Retrieved Month Day, Year). Clearly identify the database name near the URL. This practice ensures compliance with style guides and maximizes the chance the reference remains accessible, supporting scholarly communication integrity. The primary goal is providing a reliable path for readers to locate the source.