When is it appropriate to include an author's middle initial in citations?

Including an author's middle initial in citations is appropriate when the author’s middle initial is explicitly provided in the original source. This practice is important for accurately representing the author’s identity, especially when there are multiple authors with similar names. Citing the full name as presented ensures clarity and correctness in scholarly communication. By including the middle initial, you help avoid confusion and provide readers with a precise reference to the author, which is essential in academic writing. This practice aligns with APA style guidelines, which emphasize accurate attribution to promote transparency and credibility in citations.