How to MLA in Text Citation with No Author
In academic writing, proper citation is crucial for acknowledging the sources of information and avoiding plagiarism. One common scenario that arises is when a source does not have an identifiable author. In such cases, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided by the Modern Language Association (MLA) to format the in-text citation correctly. This article will guide you on how to MLA in text citation with no author.
Understanding the MLA In-Text Citation Format
The MLA in-text citation format typically includes the author’s last name and the page number where the cited information is found. However, when there is no author, the format slightly changes. Instead of the author’s name, you will use a shortened title of the source or a placeholder such as “n.d.” (no date) or “n.p.” (no page number) to indicate the absence of authorship.
Formatting the In-Text Citation with No Author
To format the in-text citation with no author, follow these steps:
1. Begin with the shortened title of the source in quotation marks.
2. If the source has a subtitle, include it in italics after the title.
3. Place a period after the subtitle (if present).
4. Add the page number where the cited information is found, followed by a period.
For example, if you are citing a website with no author, the in-text citation would look like this:
“Website Title.” Website Name, n.d., www.websitename.com. 15.
Formatting the In-Text Citation with No Author and No Page Number
In some cases, the source may not have a page number, such as a blog post or a social media post. In such instances, you can use “n.p.” to indicate the absence of a page number. Here’s an example:
“Blog Post Title.” Blog Name, n.d., www.blogname.com. n.p.
Formatting the In-Text Citation with No Author and No Date
If the source does not have a date, you can use “n.d.” to indicate the absence of a date. Here’s an example:
“Social Media Post Title.” Social Media Platform, n.d., www.socialmedia.com. n.p.
Remembering the MLA In-Text Citation Rules
To ensure you are following MLA guidelines correctly, keep these rules in mind:
1. Always use quotation marks around the shortened title of the source.
2. If the source has a subtitle, include it in italics after the title.
3. Place a period after the subtitle (if present).
4. Add the page number or “n.p.” for sources without page numbers.
5. Use “n.d.” for sources without a date.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively MLA in text citation with no author and maintain academic integrity in your writing.
