How to Do In-Text Citation with Multiple Authors MLA
In the realm of academic writing, proper citation is crucial for acknowledging the sources of information and ideas. When it comes to in-text citations with multiple authors, the Modern Language Association (MLA) format provides specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and consistency. This article will guide you through the process of how to do in-text citation with multiple authors in MLA format.
Understanding MLA Format
Before diving into the specifics of in-text citations with multiple authors, it is essential to have a basic understanding of MLA format. MLA is a widely used citation style in the humanities and offers guidelines for formatting papers, in-text citations, and the Works Cited page. The MLA format emphasizes the use of parenthetical citations within the text to reference the source.
Formatting In-Text Citations with Multiple Authors
When citing a source with multiple authors in MLA format, it is important to follow the correct format. Here are the steps to do in-text citation with multiple authors:
1. Begin the citation with the author’s last name followed by a comma.
2. Include the first initial of the author’s first name, followed by a period.
3. If there are two authors, list them in the order they appear in the source.
4. For three or more authors, list only the first author followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”).
5. Add a comma after the author’s name(s) and then the page number(s) where the information is found.
For example, if you are citing a source with two authors, the in-text citation would look like this:
Smith and Johnson argue that… (23)
If the source has three or more authors, the citation would be:
Smith et al. assert that… (45)
Formatting In-Text Citations with Different Authors
In some cases, you may need to cite a source with different authors. Here’s how to format the in-text citation:
1. Start with the first author’s last name followed by a comma.
2. Include the first initial of the first author’s first name, followed by a period.
3. Add “and” before the next author’s last name.
4. Follow the same format for subsequent authors.
5. Include a comma after the last author’s name and then the page number(s).
For example, if you are citing a source with different authors, the in-text citation would look like this:
Smith, Jones, and Brown suggest that… (12)
Conclusion
In-text citation with multiple authors in MLA format can be challenging, but by following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure accurate and consistent citations. Remember to always consult the MLA Handbook for additional information and examples. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original authors but also enhances the credibility of your own work.
