What is the correct way to reference a thesis or dissertation in APA format?

The reference to a thesis or dissertation in APA format requires specific information to provide a complete citation. The correct answer includes several essential elements: the author's name, the year of publication, the title of the work, a descriptor indicating the type of work (such as "Master's thesis" or "Doctoral dissertation"), the name of the institution, and, if applicable, a publication number and a database from which the thesis or dissertation can be retrieved.

This comprehensive structure ensures that readers can locate the original work and understand its academic context, which is vital when citing unpublished or less widely available scholarly works. The inclusion of the publication number and database is particularly important for works that may have been archived in specific repositories, allowing for easier retrieval.

In contrast, other options lack crucial elements, such as the proper designation of the type of work or omitting information like the database or publication number, which can make retrieval challenging. This highlights the importance of adhering to the specific guidelines set forth by APA to ensure clarity and uniformity in academic writing.