MLA (Modern Language Association) in-text citation is a style of citing sources within the body of a research paper or essay. It is widely used in the humanities, such as literature, language, and cultural studies. The main purpose of MLA in-text citation is to give credit to the original authors of the ideas, quotes, or information used in the paper.
What Is MLA In-Text Citation?
MLA in-text citation involves placing a citation in parentheses at the end of a sentence or quote, which corresponds to a source listed in the Works Cited page. The citation includes the author’s last name and the page number(s) where the information can be found. If the author’s name is mentioned in the sentence, only the page number(s) are included in the parentheses.
Types of MLA In-Text Citations
There are several types of MLA in-text citations, including:
- Author-page citation: (Smith 24)
- Author-page citation with multiple authors: (Smith and Johnson 24)
- Author-page citation with three or more authors: (Smith et al. 24)
- No author citation: (“The Great Gatsby” 24)
- Multiple sources citation: (Smith 24; Johnson 12)
It is essential to note that the MLA style has undergone several updates, and the 8th edition is the most recent one. The 8th edition provides more flexibility in terms of citation styles, especially when it comes to citing digital sources.
How to Create MLA In-Text Citations
To create an MLA in-text citation, follow these steps:
- Determine the type of source you are citing (book, article, website, etc.)
- Identify the author’s last name and the page number(s) where the information can be found
- Place the citation in parentheses at the end of the sentence or quote
- Use a comma to separate the author’s last name and the page number(s)
- Use “et al.” for sources with three or more authors
Examples of MLA In-Text Citations
Here are some examples of MLA in-text citations:
| Source Type | Example Citation |
|---|---|
| Book with one author | (Smith 24) |
| Book with two authors | (Smith and Johnson 24) |
| Book with three or more authors | (Smith et al. 24) |
| Article with no author | (“The Great Gatsby” 24) |
| Website with no page numbers | (Smith) |
Best Practices for MLA In-Text Citations
To ensure accurate and consistent MLA in-text citations, follow these best practices:
- Use the same citation style throughout the paper
- Double-check the citations for accuracy and consistency
- Use a citation management tool, such as MLA Citation Generator, to help with formatting
- Consult the MLA Handbook or online resources for guidance on citing unusual sources
By following these guidelines and best practices, you can create accurate and consistent MLA in-text citations that give credit to the original authors and enhance the credibility of your research paper or essay.
What is the purpose of MLA in-text citation?
+The purpose of MLA in-text citation is to give credit to the original authors of the ideas, quotes, or information used in the paper and to provide a reference to the source in the Works Cited page.
How do I cite a source with no author in MLA style?
+If the source has no author, use the title of the source in the parentheses. For example: (“The Great Gatsby” 24).
Can I use a citation management tool to help with MLA in-text citations?
+Yes, you can use a citation management tool, such as MLA Citation Generator, to help with formatting and accuracy.
