How to Cite a Video/Online Media in Vancouver Style
Learn the exact format with examples, in-text citations, and common mistakes to avoid.
Citation Format
Basic Template
[#] Creator. Video Title [Video]. Platform; Year [cited Year Month Day]. Available from: URL
Citation Components
Reference Number
Numbered [1], [2], etc.
Creator/Channel
Organization or individual name.
Video Title
Sentence case. [Video] designation in brackets.
Platform
YouTube, Vimeo, TED, etc.
Date/Access
Year [cited Year Month Day]. Available from: URL
Real-World Example
Example Source
1
Khan Academy
Introduction to quantum mechanics
YouTube
2021
2023 Jul 10
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=...
Formatted Citation
[1] Khan Academy. Introduction to quantum mechanics [Video]. YouTube; 2021 [cited 2023 Jul 10]. Available from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=...
In-Text Citation
[1]
[1], [2]
Common Mistakes
Wrong:
[1] Khan Academy. (2021). 'Introduction to Quantum Mechanics.' YouTube Video. Accessed July 10, 2023.
Right:
[1] Khan Academy. Introduction to quantum mechanics [Video]. YouTube; 2021 [cited 2023 Jul 10]. Available from: https://...
Why: Use [Video] designation (not 'Video' or 'YouTube Video'), sentence case, [cited Year Mon Day] format, and URL with 'Available from:'.
Wrong:
[1]. YouTube. Quantum mechanics video by Khan Academy. 7/10/23.
Right:
[1] Khan Academy. Introduction to quantum mechanics [Video]. YouTube; 2021 [cited 2023 Jul 10]. Available from: https://...
Why: Creator/channel first, then full video title, [Video] designation, platform, year, then [cited date] and URL.
Wrong:
[1] Khan Academy, 2021, Quantum Video, YouTube
Right:
[1] Khan Academy. Introduction to quantum mechanics [Video]. YouTube; 2021 [cited 2023 Jul 10]. Available from: https://...
Why: Use semicolon after platform, include [Video] designation, and [cited access date] with URL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the access date? ▼
Yes, Vancouver requires [cited Year Month Day] for online videos.
What if there's no specific uploader? ▼
Use the platform or channel name as the creator.
Can I include a timestamp? ▼
Add to URL: https://youtube.com/watch?v=xxxxx&t=120s or mention in text.
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