How to Cite in MLA When There is No Author
Citing sources in MLA format can sometimes be challenging, especially when the source does not have an identifiable author. However, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided by the Modern Language Association (MLA) to ensure proper citation and avoid plagiarism. In this article, we will discuss how to cite sources in MLA format when there is no author.
1. Start with the Title
When citing a source without an author, begin with the title of the work. Place the title in quotation marks and capitalize the first word of each major word in the title. If the title is longer than 40 characters, use an ellipsis (…) to indicate that the title has been shortened.
Example:
“Title of the Work”
2. Include the Publication Date
Next, include the publication date of the source. If the source is a website, include the date of the last update or the date you accessed the website. For print sources, use the year of publication.
Example:
“Title of the Work” (Year).
3. Use a Shortened Title for Subsequent Citations
When you need to cite the source again in your text, use a shortened version of the title. Capitalize the first word of the title and the first word after any punctuation marks. Place the shortened title in parentheses after the author’s name or in parentheses after the first word of the citation if there is no author.
Example:
(Title of the Work)
4. Include Page Numbers for Print Sources
If the source is a print source, such as a book or journal article, include the page numbers in parentheses after the title. For online sources, include the URL or DOI (Digital Object Identifier) in parentheses after the title.
Example:
“Title of the Work” (pp. 1-10).
5. Use a DOI or URL for Online Sources
For online sources, include the DOI (if available) or the URL in parentheses after the title. The DOI is a unique identifier for the source and can be found at the end of the URL or on the source’s website.
Example:
“Title of the Work” (DOI: 10.1234/xyz).
6. Cite Multimedia Sources Appropriately
When citing multimedia sources, such as videos or podcasts, include the title, publication date, and any other relevant information. For videos, include the URL or DOI, and for podcasts, include the episode number or title.
Example:
“Title of the Multimedia Source” (Year). [Video or Podcast]. URL or DOI.
In conclusion, citing sources in MLA format when there is no author can be challenging, but by following these guidelines, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and complete. Always refer to the MLA Handbook for more detailed information and examples.
