How to cite a YouTube video in Chicago

Chicago style YouTube video citation

To cite a YouTube video in a reference entry in Chicago style 17th edition include the following elements:

  1. Author(s) of the video: Give the name or screen name of video creator.
  2. Video title: Give the complete video title.
  3. Video length: Give the total length of the audio-visual source (e.g. 00:14:06).
  4. Date of release: Give the month, day and year of publication.
  5. URL: Give the full URL from the direct source. Include http:// or https://.

Here is the basic format for a reference list entry of a YouTube video in Chicago style 17th edition:

Author(s) of the video. "Video title." YouTube video, Video length. Date of release. URL.

Take a look at our reference list examples that demonstrate the Chicago style guidelines in action:

Examples

A YouTube video where the creator's real name is not provided

AsapSCIENCE. "How to learn faster." YouTube video, 4:06. September 28, 2017. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9SptdjpJBQ.

Note: The creator's real name is not available, the user name is used instead.

A YouTube video where the creator's real name is available

Bialik, Mayim. "The Life Changing Magic of Detective Pikachu." YouTube video, 7:05. June 13, 2019. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97KJhK-9yvc.

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