How to Cite a Database with No Author in MLA Format
In academic writing, it is crucial to properly cite all sources used to avoid plagiarism. When citing a database with no author in MLA format, there are specific guidelines to follow to ensure accuracy and consistency. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cite a database with no author in MLA format.
Step 1: Identify the Database Name
The first step in citing a database with no author in MLA format is to identify the name of the database. This is typically found at the top of the database page or in the database’s metadata. For example, if you are citing the database “Academic Search Premier,” include this name in your citation.
Step 2: Locate the Article Title
Next, locate the title of the article or resource you are citing. This information is usually found in the article’s abstract or on the first page of the article. Include the article title in quotation marks in your citation.
Step 3: Note the Publication Date
In MLA format, it is important to include the publication date of the article or resource. This can often be found in the article’s abstract or on the first page. If the publication date is not available, you may include the date you accessed the database.
Step 4: Cite the Database in the Text
When citing the database in the text of your paper, use the author’s last name and the publication date, if available. For example: “According to Smith (2020), the database ‘Academic Search Premier’ contains a wealth of information on the topic.”
Step 5: Create the Works Cited Entry
To create the Works Cited entry for a database with no author in MLA format, follow this structure:
Database Name. Date of Access. Database Name. Website Name. Date of Access.
For example:
Academic Search Premier. 2020. EBSCOhost. Accessed 15 March 2020.
Additional Tips
– If the database has a DOI (Digital Object Identifier), include it in your citation after the database name.
– If the database has a publisher, include the publisher’s name after the database name in the Works Cited entry.
– If the database has a volume and issue number, include them in your citation after the article title.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you properly cite a database with no author in MLA format. Always double-check the MLA Handbook or a reliable online resource for the most up-to-date citation rules.
