How to Cite Multiple Authors in MLA 8
Citing multiple authors in MLA 8 format can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially when you are not sure about the specific guidelines. However, with a clear understanding of the rules, you can easily format your citations correctly. In this article, we will discuss the various scenarios where you might need to cite multiple authors in MLA 8 and provide you with the necessary guidelines to do so.
1. Citing Two Authors
When citing two authors in MLA 8, you should list both names in the order they appear in the source. If the authors have the same last name, include their first initials to differentiate them. Here’s an example:
Smith, J., and L. Smith. “Title of the Article.” Journal Name, vol. 5, no. 2, 2020, pp. 45-60.
In the works-cited list, the entry would look like this:
Smith, J., and L. Smith. “Title of the Article.” Journal Name, vol. 5, no. 2, 2020, pp. 45-60.
2. Citing Three to Five Authors
When citing three to five authors, include all the names in the order they appear in the source. If there are more than five authors, include the first author followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”) and the last name of the last author. Here’s an example:
Johnson, A., B. Johnson, C. Johnson, D. Johnson, and E. Johnson. “Title of the Article.” Journal Name, vol. 10, no. 3, 2019, pp. 100-110.
In the works-cited list, the entry would look like this:
Johnson, A., B. Johnson, C. Johnson, D. Johnson, and E. Johnson. “Title of the Article.” Journal Name, vol. 10, no. 3, 2019, pp. 100-110.
3. Citing More Than Five Authors
When citing more than five authors, follow the same format as in the previous example, using “et al.” to indicate that there are additional authors. Here’s an example:
Garcia, H., I. Garcia, J. Garcia, K. Garcia, L. Garcia, M. Garcia, et al. “Title of the Article.” Journal Name, vol. 15, no. 4, 2018, pp. 200-210.
In the works-cited list, the entry would look like this:
Garcia, H., I. Garcia, J. Garcia, K. Garcia, L. Garcia, M. Garcia, et al. “Title of the Article.” Journal Name, vol. 15, no. 4, 2018, pp. 200-210.
4. Citing a Source with Multiple Versions
If you are citing a source that has multiple versions, such as a book with an earlier edition, include the author’s name, the title of the source, and the version you are using. Here’s an example:
Smith, J. The History of America. 2nd ed., Publisher, 2021.
In the works-cited list, the entry would look like this:
Smith, J. The History of America. 2nd ed., Publisher, 2021.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively cite multiple authors in MLA 8 format. Remember to always double-check the specific requirements of your instructor or publication to ensure you are adhering to the correct citation style.
