How to Cite Multiple Articles by Same Author in MLA Format
Citing multiple articles by the same author in MLA format can be a bit tricky, but with a few guidelines, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent. The Modern Language Association (MLA) provides specific rules for citing works by the same author, whether they are published in the same or different journals, books, or websites. In this article, we will discuss the steps to follow when citing multiple articles by the same author in MLA format.
Formatting the In-text Citation
When citing multiple articles by the same author, the in-text citation should include the author’s last name and the page number(s) where the information is found. If you are citing a single article, simply include the author’s last name and the page number. For example:
– (Smith 23)
– (Smith 45-47)
However, when citing multiple articles by the same author, you must include the author’s last name, the page number(s) of the first article, and a shortened title of the second article. The shortened title should be placed in parentheses and followed by a period. For example:
– (Smith 23; Article Title 45)
If you are citing more than two articles, you can use the same format, but you must list the titles of all the articles in alphabetical order. For example:
– (Smith 23; Article Title A 45; Article Title B 67)
Formatting the Works Cited Entry
When creating the Works Cited entry for multiple articles by the same author, you must list each article separately. The entry should include the author’s last name, first name, the title of the article, the title of the journal, the volume number, the issue number (if applicable), the publication date, and the page numbers. For example:
Smith, John. “Article Title A.” Journal Title, vol. 12, no. 3, 2020, pp. 45-67.
Smith, John. “Article Title B.” Journal Title, vol. 12, no. 4, 2020, pp. 78-92.
If the articles are published in different journals, you can list them in any order. However, if the articles are published in the same journal, you should list them in the order they appear in the journal.
Formatting Multiple Articles in a Single Source
In some cases, an author may publish multiple articles in the same source, such as a journal or a book. When citing these articles, you must still list each article separately in the Works Cited entry. However, you can include a note at the end of the entry to indicate that the articles are part of a single source. For example:
Smith, John. “Article Title A” and “Article Title B.” Journal Title, vol. 12, no. 3-4, 2020, pp. 45-92.
In this example, the note at the end of the entry indicates that the two articles are part of a single source.
Conclusion
Citing multiple articles by the same author in MLA format requires attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent. Always refer to the MLA Handbook for the most up-to-date information on citation rules.
