How to Write an Author’s Name in MLA Format
Writing in MLA format requires attention to detail, especially when it comes to formatting author names. Properly writing an author’s name in MLA format is essential for academic integrity and ensuring that your work is easily referenced by others. In this article, we will discuss the guidelines for writing an author’s name in MLA format and provide examples to help you understand the process.
Basic Guidelines for Writing an Author’s Name in MLA Format
When writing an author’s name in MLA format, follow these basic guidelines:
1. Use the author’s last name followed by a comma and then the first name.
2. Capitalize the first letter of each part of the author’s name.
3. Do not include any titles, such as Dr., Mr., or Mrs., before the author’s name.
4. Do not use periods after the author’s name.
Examples of Writing an Author’s Name in MLA Format
Here are some examples of how to write an author’s name in MLA format:
– Incorrect: Dr. Jane Smith
– Correct: Smith, Jane
– Incorrect: John Q. Public
– Correct: Public, John Q.
– Incorrect: Mr. Emily Johnson
– Correct: Johnson, Emily
– Incorrect: Jane Doe
– Correct: Doe, Jane
Formatting Author Names in Different Situations
Understanding how to format author names in different situations is crucial for maintaining consistency in your MLA formatting. Here are some common scenarios:
1. In-text citations: When citing an author in-text, include only the author’s last name and the page number. For example: (Smith 23).
2. Works cited list: In the Works Cited list, include the author’s full name, followed by the title of the work. For example: Smith, Jane. “Title of the Work.” Journal of Example, vol. 5, no. 2, 2020, pp. 23-45.
3. Block quotes: When using a block quote, include the author’s full name before the quote, followed by the title of the work. For example: Jane Smith, “Title of the Work,” Journal of Example, vol. 5, no. 2, 2020, pp. 23-45.
4. Notes: When using footnotes or endnotes, include the author’s full name and the page number. For example: 1. Jane Smith, “Title of the Work,” Journal of Example, vol. 5, no. 2, 2020, p. 23.
Conclusion
Writing an author’s name in MLA format is a straightforward process when you follow the guidelines and examples provided in this article. By paying attention to details such as capitalization, punctuation, and formatting, you can ensure that your work adheres to MLA standards and is easily referenced by others.
