How to Cite Congressional Research Service
The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is a non-partisan research arm of the United States Congress that provides comprehensive and in-depth analysis on a wide range of policy issues. Citing CRS reports in academic papers, research articles, or other publications is essential for ensuring accuracy and credibility. This article will guide you on how to properly cite CRS reports in your work.
Firstly, it is important to note that CRS reports are typically not published as standalone books or articles. Instead, they are distributed to Congress and other government officials. Therefore, the citation format may differ slightly from traditional book or journal citations. Here are the steps to follow when citing a CRS report:
1. Start with the author’s name, if available. CRS reports are often authored by individual analysts, and their names should be included in the citation. If the author’s name is not provided, you can omit this part of the citation.
2. Next, include the title of the report. The title should be placed in quotation marks, as it is a specific document title.
3. After the title, provide the report number. CRS reports are assigned a unique number that can be found on the cover of the report or in the footer. This number is crucial for identifying the specific report you are citing.
4. Specify the date of the report. The date should be in parentheses following the report number. This indicates the year the report was published or updated.
5. Finally, include the source of the report. Since CRS reports are not published in traditional journals or books, you will need to indicate the specific CRS report database or website where you accessed the report.
Here is an example of a complete citation for a CRS report:
“Analyst’s Name, ‘Title of the Report,’ CRS Report No. XXXX (Year of Publication), [Database or Website Name].”
For instance:
“Sarah Smith, ‘The Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture,’ CRS Report No. R4444 (2020), Congressional Research Service.”
Remember to consult your specific citation style guide, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, for any additional formatting requirements or specific instructions on citing CRS reports. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your citation of CRS reports is accurate and meets the standards of academic integrity.
