What to Put When There is No Author in MLA Format
When citing a source in MLA format, the author’s name is typically the first piece of information provided. However, there are instances where the author’s name is not available. In such cases, it is essential to follow the proper guidelines to ensure your citation is accurate and complete. This article will discuss what to put when there is no author in MLA format.
1. Start with the Title
In MLA format, if the source does not have an author, the title of the work should be placed first in the citation. The title should be written in title case, with the first letter of each major word capitalized. For example:
“The Great Gatsby”
2. Include the Publication Date
Next, include the publication date of the source. If the source is a book, the date should be the year of publication. For example:
“The Great Gatsby (1925)”
If the source is an article or a chapter in a book, include the year of the issue or the year of the book, respectively. For example:
“The Great Gatsby (1925)”
3. Specify the Source Type
After the publication date, indicate the type of source you are citing. Common source types include “Book,” “Journal Article,” “Magazine Article,” “Web Page,” and “Blog Post.” For example:
“The Great Gatsby (Book)”
4. Add Page Numbers (if applicable)
If the source has page numbers, include them in the citation. For example:
“The Great Gatsby (Book), 123-145”
5. Cite the Source in Your Text
When citing the source in your text, use a parenthetical citation with the author’s name and page number (if available). If the author’s name is not available, use the title of the work instead. For example:
“In ‘The Great Gatsby,’ the protagonist’s journey is a reflection of the American Dream (Gatsby).”
6. Create a Works Cited Entry
Finally, create a Works Cited entry for the source. The entry should include the title, publication date, and source type, as well as any other relevant information. For example:
Gatsby, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. 1925. Book.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your MLA citation is complete and accurate, even when the author’s name is not available. Remember to always double-check the source for any additional information that may be necessary for your citation.
