To correctly cite an article, which piece of information is essential?

In academic writing, it is important to adhere to specific citation formats that include crucial elements to ensure clarity and traceability of the sources used. To provide a complete and accurate citation for an article, several pieces of information must be included.

The author's name is essential as it identifies who contributed to the work, giving credit and allowing readers to find additional works by the same author. The journal name is vital because it indicates where the article was published, helping the reader locate the original source material within the correct context of the academic discipline. Page numbers are also important because they direct the reader to the exact location of the cited information within the article, which aids in verifying and exploring the content further.

When all of these components—author's name, journal name, and page numbers—are included, the citation becomes comprehensive, making it easier for readers to access the referenced material. As such, selecting the option that includes all these elements accurately reflects the requirements for a proper citation in academic writing.