How to Harvard Reference a YouTube Video

Referencing YouTube videos in academic work is becoming increasingly common, as more lectures, documentaries and credible sources are published online. If you are using the Harvard referencing style, it is important to follow the correct format so your references are clear and consistent. The Harvard system requires specific details such as the author, year, video title, platform and URL.

Key Elements of a Harvard Reference for YouTube

A standard Harvard reference for a YouTube video should include the person or organisation that uploaded the video, the year it was posted, the title of the video in italics, the phrase “YouTube video,” the date you accessed it, and the full URL. These elements make sure the reader can find and verify the source.

The Basic Format

The general format for a YouTube reference in Harvard style is:

Author/Organisation (Year) Title of video. YouTube video, Day Month [Online]. Available at: URL (Accessed: Day Month Year).

Example of a Harvard Reference for YouTube

If a video titled The Future of Artificial Intelligence was uploaded by Oxford University in 2021,

In-text Citations for YouTube Videos

When citing a YouTube video in the text of your essay or report, you use the uploader’s name and the year of publication. For example: (Oxford University, 2021). If you are quoting directly, you may also want to include a timestamp to guide readers to the exact point in the video. For instance: (Oxford University, 2021, 02:15).

Tips for Accurate Referencing

Always check who the real author or organisation behind the video is, as sometimes the uploader is not the original creator. Make sure you provide the date you accessed the video, since online content can change or be removed. If the video has a long or complex title, keep it exactly as shown on YouTube, using italics as required. For academic work, prioritise videos from credible sources such as universities, institutions or recognised experts.

Conclusion

Harvard referencing a YouTube video is straightforward once you know the required elements. Include the uploader’s name, year, video title, platform, URL and access date. Use in-text citations with the uploader’s name and year, and add timestamps for direct quotes. By following these rules, you can reference YouTube videos clearly and consistently in your academic work.