How to MLA In-Text Cite No Author
In academic writing, proper citation is crucial for giving credit to the original authors of the ideas and information used. When citing sources in MLA format, it is essential to follow the guidelines, especially when dealing with sources that do not have an identifiable author. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to MLA in-text cite a source with no author.
1. Identify the Source
The first step in citing a source with no author is to identify the source itself. This could be a website, a book, or any other type of publication. Make sure you have the necessary information, such as the title, the publication date, and the URL or page number.
2. Use a shortened title
When citing a source with no author, use a shortened version of the title in parentheses after the opening quotation mark. The shortened title should be no longer than 50 characters and should be written in sentence case. For example:
> “Summary of the article” (Smith, 2020)
3. Include the publication date
After the shortened title, include the publication date of the source in parentheses. This helps readers locate the source more easily. For example:
> “Summary of the article” (Smith, 2020)
4. Place the citation in parentheses
Place the entire in-text citation in parentheses, with the shortened title and publication date separated by a comma. For example:
> “Summary of the article” (Smith, 2020)
5. Use a shortened title for subsequent citations
For subsequent citations of the same source, use the shortened title without the publication date. This helps avoid repetition and keeps the text clean. For example:
> “Summary of the article” (Smith)
6. Include the full citation in the Works Cited list
Finally, include the full citation for the source in the Works Cited list at the end of your paper. The full citation should include the author’s name, the title of the source, the publication date, and the publication information. For example:
> Smith, John. “Summary of the article.” Journal of Academic Writing, vol. 5, no. 2, 2020, pp. 123-145.
By following these steps, you can effectively MLA in-text cite a source with no author. Remember to always double-check the MLA guidelines for any specific requirements or exceptions to the rules. Proper citation not only demonstrates academic integrity but also helps readers locate the sources you’ve used for your research.
