Let’s say you’re quoting a study on the benefits of naps by Huang, Chen, and Roberts. In your sentence: “Huang, Chen, and Roberts suggest naps boost creativity.” In parentheses: (Huang, Chen, and Roberts 88).
Now try a source by Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, and 12 other scientists. In-text: “Reeves et al. argue that time travel is possible.” See? It’s rhythmic, like a chorus line of Bill & Ted. Excellent.