How should in-text citations for works with three or more authors be formatted?

When citing works with three or more authors in-text according to APA style, the correct approach is to list all the authors the first time the work is cited and then subsequently use the first author's surname followed by "et al." for any subsequent citations. This method provides clarity and gives appropriate credit to all authors initially, acknowledging their contributions, while also maintaining conciseness in later references. This practice aligns with APA guidelines, as it helps readers easily identify the original source without overcrowding the text with lengthy author lists.

The incorrect options suggest different methods of citation that do not align with these guidelines. For instance, always listing all authors regardless of the number would be cumbersome and inefficient for works with many contributors. Relying solely on "et al." for the first citation or using only the first author's name for all citations could misrepresent the original authorship and diminish the recognition owed to all authors involved in the collaborative work. Thus, option A accurately reflects the appropriate and standardized practice in APA format.