How to Cite a Website with No Author in MLA 9
In the realm of academic writing, citing sources is an essential part of maintaining integrity and giving credit to the original creators of the information. When citing a website in MLA 9 format, the absence of an author can present a challenge. However, following a few simple guidelines can help ensure that your citation is accurate and conforms to MLA 9 standards. In this article, we will discuss how to cite a website with no author in MLA 9 format.
Understanding MLA 9 Format
MLA 9, also known as the Modern Language Association’s 9th edition, provides specific guidelines for citing sources in academic writing. These guidelines help maintain consistency and clarity in the presentation of source information. In MLA 9, a citation typically consists of the author’s name, the title of the source, the title of the website, the publisher, and the date of publication.
Citing a Website with No Author
When citing a website with no author in MLA 9 format, it is important to remember that the format may differ slightly from that of a website with an author. In such cases, you should still include the necessary elements of the citation, but the order and presentation may vary. Here’s how to structure your citation:
1. Start with the title of the web page or article, italicized.
2. Next, include the title of the website, also italicized.
3. Then, list the publisher or sponsor of the website, if available.
4. Provide the publication date or the date you accessed the website.
5. Finally, include the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of the website.
Here’s an example of how to cite a website with no author in MLA 9 format:
“Title of the Web Page or Article.” Title of the Website, Publisher or Sponsor, Publication Date, URL.
For instance:
“Introduction to MLA 9.” MLA Style, Modern Language Association, 2018, www.mla.org.
Remember to capitalize the first letter of each principal word in the titles, including the website title, and to italicize both the web page or article title and the website title.
Formatting and Punctuation
When formatting your citation, it is important to pay attention to punctuation and spacing. Here are some key points to remember:
1. Use a period after the title of the web page or article.
2. Place a comma after the title of the website.
3. Include a period after the publisher or sponsor.
4. Add a comma after the publication date or access date.
5. Close the citation with a period after the URL.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively cite a website with no author in MLA 9 format, ensuring that your academic work maintains the necessary level of credibility and professionalism.
