Which additional detail is necessary when citing electronic resources?

When citing electronic resources, including the URL is essential because it provides the precise location where the resource can be accessed. The URL allows readers to directly locate the cited material, which is critical in ensuring the reliability and verifiability of the sources used in any academic or professional writing. Including this detail supports the transparency and trustworthiness of the research and aligns with citation standards set by various style guides, such as APA and MLA.

While details like volume and issue number, publisher's operating system, and print date can be relevant in specific contexts, they are not universally required for all electronic sources. The primary necessity across various styles remains the URL, as it serves as the key to accessing the digital content cited.