How to Cite a Paper with Multiple Authors MLA
Citing a paper with multiple authors in MLA format can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially for those who are new to academic writing. The Modern Language Association (MLA) provides specific guidelines for citing sources, including papers with multiple authors. In this article, we will discuss the steps to follow when citing a paper with multiple authors in MLA format.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the specifics of citing a paper with multiple authors in MLA format, it is important to understand the basic structure of an MLA citation. A typical MLA citation consists of the author’s name, the title of the source, the title of the container, other contributors, version or edition, numbers, publisher, publication date, and location. For a paper with multiple authors, the structure remains the same, but there are some additional rules to consider.
Formatting the In-text Citation
When citing a paper with multiple authors in MLA format, the in-text citation should include the authors’ last names and the page number where the information is found. If the paper has two authors, simply list both names. For example:
> According to Smith and Johnson (123), the impact of climate change on coastal communities is significant.
If the paper has three or more authors, list only the first author followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”). For example:
> Recent studies have shown that social media usage is correlated with mental health issues (Smith et al., 456).
Formatting the Works Cited Entry
The Works Cited entry for a paper with multiple authors should include the authors’ names, the title of the paper, the title of the journal or book, the volume and issue number (if applicable), the publication date, and the page numbers. Here is an example:
> Smith, John, Jane Johnson, and Emily Doe. “The Effects of Social Media on Mental Health.” Journal of Psychology, vol. 10, no. 2, 2020, pp. 123-145.
Formatting the Title
When citing a paper with multiple authors, the title should be placed in quotation marks if it is an article or essay, and it should be italicized if it is a book or journal title. For example:
> “The Effects of Social Media on Mental Health”
Formatting the Journal or Book Title
The title of the journal or book should be italicized. For example:
> Journal of Psychology
Formatting the Volume and Issue Number
If the paper is from a journal, include the volume and issue number (if applicable) in parentheses after the title. For example:
> Journal of Psychology, vol. 10, no. 2
Formatting the Publication Date
The publication date should be included in parentheses after the volume and issue number (if applicable). For example:
> Journal of Psychology, vol. 10, no. 2 (2020)
Formatting the Page Numbers
Finally, include the page numbers where the information is found at the end of the Works Cited entry. For example:
> Journal of Psychology, vol. 10, no. 2 (2020), pp. 123-145.
By following these guidelines, you can successfully cite a paper with multiple authors in MLA format. Remember to always double-check the latest MLA guidelines for any updates or changes to the formatting rules.
