How should personal communications be cited in text in APA style?

In APA style, personal communications are considered unique because they do not provide recoverable data; therefore, they are not included in the reference list. Instead, they should be cited in-text only. The correct format includes the first initial and last name of the individual, followed by the phrase “personal communication” and the date of the communication. This format provides the necessary context for the reader by indicating both the source of the information and the timing, which is important for establishing the relevance and credibility of the content being discussed. This method allows for acknowledgment of the source without the expectation that the reader will be able to access the communication in question.