Articles found in library databases are referenced in the same way as print articles. If the article's electronic address has a DOI, INCLUDE IT. If the article is easily located, from a common academic database, DO NOT include database information or URL. Database information may be included if the article is difficult to find or has proprietary information, but is not mandatory.
Note: Many databases provide a citation generator tool that will format citations for you; all you have to do is select the correct style. Then you can copy and paste the citation into your paper. It's always good to double check what the database creates, because errors in punctuation and capitalization are fairly common.
Basic Format
Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (Year). Title of article. Title of Periodical, Volume number(Issue number), page range.
Note: The title of the periodical and the volume number are italicized.
Example
Gielen, Anne C., Kerkhofs, M., & Van Ours, J. (2010). How performance related pay affects productivity and employment. Journal of Population Economics, 23(1), 291-301.
Notes
Journal Article - journal with non-continuous pagination within each volume
Buell, C. (2001, August). Enhancing content literacy in physical education. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, 72(6), 32-37.
Journal Article - journal with continuous pagination within each volume (no issue cited)
Bodnar, J. (2001). Saving Private Ryan and Postwar Memory in America. American Historical Review, 106, 805-817.
Magazine Article - publication date includes month, day and year
Novak, M. (2001, September 3). The Stem-Cell Slide. National Review, 53(17), 17-18.
Newspaper Article- publication date includes month, day, and year, no volume or issue number
Pincus, W. (2001, August 25). Panel asked to defer anti-leak bill hearing. The Washington Post, p. A4.