How to Cite a Conference Paper in Vancouver Style
Learn the exact format with examples, in-text citations, and common mistakes to avoid.
Citation Format
Basic Template
[#] Author(s). Paper title. In: Proceedings of Conference Name; Year Month Day-Day; Location.
Citation Components
Reference Number
Numbered [1], [2], etc.
Author(s)
Last name Initial(s).
Paper Title
Sentence case. Not italicized.
Conference Info
In: Proceedings of Conference Name; Year Month Day-Day; Location.
Real-World Example
Example Source
1
Lee S, Patel M
CRISPR gene editing applications in cancer treatment
International Conference on Molecular Medicine
2023 Sep 10-12
Boston, MA
Formatted Citation
[1] Lee S, Patel M. CRISPR gene editing applications in cancer treatment. In: Proceedings of International Conference on Molecular Medicine; 2023 Sep 10-12; Boston, MA.
In-Text Citation
[1]
[1], [2]
Common Mistakes
Wrong:
[1] Lee, S. & Patel, M. (2023). CRISPR Gene Editing. Presented at the International Conference, Boston, September 10-12.
Right:
[1] Lee S, Patel M. CRISPR gene editing applications in cancer treatment. In: Proceedings of International Conference on Molecular Medicine; 2023 Sep 10-12; Boston, MA.
Why: Use initials without periods, sentence case for title, 'In: Proceedings of', and use semicolons to separate components.
Wrong:
[1]. Lee, S., Patel, M., et al. 2023. Gene Editing Paper. Boston Conference.
Right:
[1] Lee S, Patel M. CRISPR gene editing applications in cancer treatment. In: Proceedings of International Conference on Molecular Medicine; 2023 Sep 10-12; Boston, MA.
Why: List authors without 'et al.' in reference list. Include full conference name and complete date range.
Wrong:
[1] Lee S, Patel M. CRISPR Gene Editing. International Conference. September 2023, Boston.
Right:
[1] Lee S, Patel M. CRISPR gene editing applications in cancer treatment. In: Proceedings of International Conference on Molecular Medicine; 2023 Sep 10-12; Boston, MA.
Why: Use proper date format (Year Mon Day-Day), full conference name, 'In: Proceedings of' format.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the conference paper was later published? ▼
If published as an article or in proceedings, cite the published version instead.
Do I need the exact conference dates? ▼
Include them if available. Month and year at minimum.
Should I include conference location in in-text citations? ▼
No, just use [1], [2], etc. Location is only in the full reference.
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