In-text citations are crucial for academic integrity. They give credit to the sources you've used to support your arguments and allow readers to easily find those sources in your Works Cited page. This guide breaks down how to properly cite sources within your MLA-formatted paper.
Understanding MLA In-Text Citations
The core of an MLA in-text citation is simple: it includes the author's last name and the page number(s) where the information is found, enclosed in parentheses. This information is usually placed at the end of the sentence containing the cited material.
Basic In-Text Citation Format
The most common format is: (Author's Last Name Page Number).
Example: "Shakespeare's use of dramatic irony is masterful" (Shakespeare 123).
Different Citation Scenarios
One Author
- Example: As Johnson argues, "the impact of climate change is undeniable" (Johnson 42).
Two Authors
- Example: Research indicates a strong correlation between these factors (Smith and Jones 78).
Three or More Authors
- Example: Many studies support this conclusion (Anderson et al. 15). Note: "et al." is used as a shortcut for "and others."
No Author Listed
If a source doesn't list an author, use a shortened version of the title in place of the author's last name. If it's a long title, shorten it to a recognizable keyword or phrase.
- Example: ("The Impact of Social Media" 25).
Multiple Works by the Same Author
If you cite multiple works by the same author, include a shortened title to distinguish between them.
- Example: (Smith, The Green Planet 102).
Indirect Sources (Quoting a Quote)
When you cite a source that quotes another source, use the abbreviation "qtd. in" before citing the source you actually read.
- Example: As Smith mentions, Jones argued that "the effects are significant" (qtd. in Smith 55).
Electronic Sources
For online sources without page numbers, use paragraph numbers (if available), or a section heading or other relevant locator. Sometimes, it may be appropriate to just omit the parenthetical citation and cite the source at the end of the paragraph in a footnote, especially if there are no discernible markers to cite.
- Example: (Jones, para. 3).
Visual and Multimedia Sources
Cite the creator's name, the title, and any other identifying information (like date of publication) if needed for context.
- Example: (Smith, “Data Visualization”)
Placement of In-Text Citations
- Direct Quotes: Always enclose direct quotes in quotation marks and cite the source immediately afterward.
- Paraphrases and Summaries: While you don't use quotation marks, you still need to credit the original source with a citation. Remember, paraphrasing means putting information into your own words, not just changing a few words here and there.
Maintaining Flow and Clarity
While accurate citations are essential, try to integrate them smoothly into your writing. Avoid abrupt interruptions by using your own words to introduce and contextualize the information you're citing.
Works Cited Page
Remember, your in-text citations must correspond to the entries on your Works Cited page. This page provides the complete bibliographic information for each source, allowing readers to find the information you've used.
By following these guidelines, you'll master MLA in-text citations and strengthen the credibility of your academic work. Remember to always consult your style guide for the most up-to-date information and specific rules.
