Referencing in APA7: Using shortened URLs
17/07/2025
As you may be aware, when you are referencing a website or any internet-based source you need to include the source URL. For most conventional reference lists, it is fine to include the URL or DOI in full. In some cases, however, it may be necessary or beneficial to use a shortened URL instead. For example, on an academic poster, slide deck or similar.
Guidance from the APA7 manual states:
“When a DOI or URL is long or complex, you may use shortDOIs or shortened URLs if desired. Use the shortDOI service provided by the International DOI Foundation (http://shortdoi.org/) to create shortDOIs. Some websites provide their own branded shortened URLs, and independent URL shortening services are available as well. Any shortened URL is acceptable in a reference as long as you check the link to ensure that it takes you to the correct location.”
If you think you need to use shortened links in your references, please visit: http://shortdoi.org/ and remember to check all links before submitting your work.
As ever, if you require any individual support please contact the Library by emailing us on library@cranfield.ac.uk
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