Citing Government Docs: A Bureaucratic Beast
So, you've finally decided to dive into the murky waters of government documentation, eh? And you want to cite it in Chicago style? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because this is going to be a wild ride.
The Government Document Dilemma
Let's face it, government documents are about as exciting as watching paint dry. They’re often long, dense, and filled with jargon that would make a dictionary blush. But fear not, intrepid researcher! With a little guidance, you can navigate this bureaucratic labyrinth and emerge victorious.
The Basics
- Identify the author: This might seem obvious, but it's not always straightforward. Is it the government agency itself, or is there an actual person behind the report?
- Gather the details: You'll need the title, publication date, and any relevant publication information.
- Check for specific guidelines: Different types of government documents (reports, statutes, etc.) might have their own citation quirks. Don't be afraid to consult the Chicago Manual of Style for more specific guidance.
Footnotes or Bibliography? Your Call
Chicago style offers two main citation formats: footnotes and bibliography. The choice is yours, but be consistent throughout your paper.
- Footnotes: Place the citation at the bottom of the page where the information is used.
- Bibliography: List all sources alphabetically at the end of your paper.
Example Time
Let's say you're citing a report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Here's a sample footnote:
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Climate Change Indicators in the United States, (Washington, DC: EPA, 2016), 12.
And here's how it would look in a bibliography:
United States Environmental Protection Agency. Climate Change Indicators in the United States. Washington, DC: EPA, 2016.
Don't Panic
Remember, the goal is to provide enough information for your reader to find the source. If you're unsure about something, err on the side of including too much information rather than too little. And if all else fails, consult a librarian. They're the unsung heroes of the academic world.
How-To Questions
How to cite a government report in Chicago style? Generally, start with the government agency as the author, followed by the report title, publication information, and page number (if applicable).
How to cite a government website in Chicago style? Treat it like a regular website citation, including the author (if available), title, URL, and access date.
How to cite a government statute in Chicago style? Consult the Chicago Manual of Style for specific guidance on citing legal materials.
How to cite a government database in Chicago style? Similar to a website, include the database name, title of the information, and access date.
How to shorten government citations in Chicago style? After the first full citation, you can use a shortened version in subsequent footnotes. For example:United States Environmental Protection Agency, Climate Change Indicators, 25.