Free ACS Citation Generator
An ACS citation generator formats chemistry and scientific sources into American Chemical Society references and matching numbered, superscript, or author-date citations. This private formatter works in your browser without uploading source data or requiring sign-in.
Build an ACS Reference
Add source details; the reference updates instantly.
ACS method
How to create an ACS reference
- 01
Choose journal article, book, website, or report.
- 02
Choose numbered, superscript, or author-date in-text citations.
- 03
Enter the author or organization and source title.
- 04
Add publication, date, locator, and access details.
- 05
Review warnings, verify against the original and current ACS guidance, then copy both citations.
ACS Citation Generator FAQ
What is an ACS citation generator?
An ACS citation generator turns source details into an American Chemical Society reference and a matching in-text citation for chemistry and related scientific writing.
How are authors written in ACS style?
ACS references normally write each family name followed by punctuated initials and separate multiple authors with semicolons.
Does ACS use superscript or parenthetical citations?
ACS publications may use superscript numbers, italic numbers in parentheses, or author-date citations. Follow the journal, course, or instructor guide that applies to your work.
Does ACS style require an access date for websites?
An access date is useful for web content that changes and is required by some ACS journals and instructors. Include the URL and follow the guide that applies to your work.
Should I verify a generated ACS reference?
Yes. Check names, journal abbreviations, dates, volume, issue, pages, DOI, and punctuation against the original source and your institution's guide.
Formatting conventions change. Compare your result with the current ACS Style Quick Guide and the instructions for your publication or course.
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