How do I cite multiple authors in MLA?
Citing multiple authors in MLA format can sometimes be confusing, especially when dealing with a list of three or more names. However, following a few simple guidelines can help you create accurate and professional citations. In this article, we will discuss the proper way to cite multiple authors in MLA format.
Formatting the List of Authors
When citing multiple authors in MLA format, the first thing to remember is that you should list all the authors’ names in the order they appear on the source. If there are three or more authors, you should include only the first author’s name followed by “et al.” (which means “and others” in Latin). For example:
– Smith, Johnson, and Brown (123)
– Smith, Johnson, Brown, and Davis (456)
Formatting the In-text Citation
When citing a source with multiple authors in your text, you should follow the same format as the reference list. If you are citing a source with three or more authors, use the first author’s last name followed by “et al.” and the page number. For example:
– According to Smith et al., the results of the study were significant (123).
– The data shows that the new policy has had a positive impact, as indicated by Johnson et al. (456).
Formatting the Works Cited Entry
When creating the Works Cited entry for a source with multiple authors, you should follow the standard MLA format. Include the authors’ names, the title of the source, the title of the container, other contributors, version or edition, numbers, publisher, publication date, and location. For example:
– Smith, John, et al. “The Impact of New Policies on Society.” Journal of Social Sciences, vol. 12, no. 3, 2020, pp. 123-145.
Remember to pay attention to punctuation and formatting rules, such as using quotation marks for titles of articles and books, and capitalizing the first word of each title.
Conclusion
Citing multiple authors in MLA format is an essential skill for students and researchers. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can create accurate and professional citations. Always double-check your work and refer to the MLA Handbook for additional information and examples.
