How to in-text cite MLA without author
In MLA citation style, it is essential to provide proper credit to the sources you use in your research. However, there are instances when you may need to cite a source without an author. This can be challenging, but with the right guidelines, you can effectively in-text cite MLA without an author. In this article, we will discuss the steps to follow when citing a source without an author in MLA format.
1. Use a shortened title
When citing a source without an author, you should use a shortened version of the title in your in-text citation. The shortened title should be placed in quotation marks and followed by a period. For example, if you are citing a book without an author, you can use the following format:
(p. 25)
This format indicates that the information you are referencing is found on page 25 of the source.
2. Include the page number
Always include the page number in your in-text citation when citing a source without an author. This helps readers locate the specific information you are referencing. For example:
(p. 45)
This format indicates that the information you are referencing is found on page 45 of the source.
3. Use a shortened title for subsequent citations
If you need to cite the same source multiple times without an author, you can continue using the shortened title in your in-text citations. However, you should include the page number each time to ensure clarity. For example:
(p. 67)
(p. 89)
This format indicates that the information you are referencing is found on pages 67 and 89 of the source.
4. Include the author’s name in the Works Cited list
Even though you are not citing the author’s name in the in-text citation, you must still include the author’s name in the Works Cited list. The Works Cited list should be formatted according to MLA guidelines, with the author’s name, the title of the source, and any other relevant information.
For example:
Smith, John. “Title of the Article.” Journal of Example, vol. 5, no. 2, 2020, pp. 25-45.
By following these steps, you can effectively in-text cite MLA without an author. Remember to always double-check your citations for accuracy and to consult the MLA Handbook for more detailed information on citation rules.