How should in-text citations be formatted in APA style?

In APA style, in-text citations are formatted as (Author, Year), which includes the author's last name followed by the year of publication, all enclosed in parentheses. This format allows the reader to easily identify the source of the information immediately while maintaining the flow of the text.

Using this particular format, readers can quickly ascertain the source of a claim or piece of information, which is essential for academic integrity and allowing readers to locate the full reference in the bibliography or reference list. This standardization helps to ensure consistent usage across academic writing, making it easier for readers to navigate citations.

The other formats listed lack the proper structure required by APA guidelines. For instance, omitting parentheses or using punctuation inappropriately disrupts the clarity and organization that APA style aims to achieve. Therefore, the option of (Author, Year) is not only the correct format, but it also adheres to the conventions established by APA style for in-text citations.