What if an article doesn’t have an author MLA? This question often arises when students and researchers encounter articles without a clearly identified author. The MLA (Modern Language Association) citation format is widely used in the humanities and social sciences, and it requires the inclusion of the author’s name in the citation. However, there are instances where an article may lack an author’s name, posing challenges in formatting the citation correctly. In this article, we will explore the different scenarios and provide guidance on how to handle such cases when citing an article without an author in MLA format.
In the first scenario, if the article is found in a database or an online platform, it is essential to check if the author’s name is available in the metadata. Many databases provide detailed information about the article, including the author’s name, publication date, and other relevant details. If the author’s name is missing from the metadata, you can still cite the article by using the title of the article instead of the author’s name.
For example:
> “Title of the Article,” Journal Name, vol. Issue, no. Issue, Year, accessed Date, URL.
In the second scenario, if the article is a part of a larger collection or an edited book, the author’s name might not be explicitly mentioned. In such cases, you can include the editor’s name instead of the author’s name in the citation. If both the author and the editor are not available, you can use the title of the article followed by the title of the book or collection.
For example:
> “Title of the Article,” in Title of the Book/Collection, edited by Editor’s Name, vol. Issue, no. Issue, Year, Publisher, accessed Date, URL.
In some cases, the article may be a part of a conference proceeding or a symposium, where the author’s name is not provided. In such instances, you can cite the article by using the title of the article and the title of the conference or symposium.
For example:
> “Title of the Article,” Proceedings of the [Conference/Symposium Name], vol. Issue, no. Issue, Year, accessed Date, URL.
When citing an article without an author in MLA format, it is crucial to include the publication date, volume, issue number, and the title of the article. Additionally, if the article is accessed online, provide the URL and the date of access. This information ensures that the citation is complete and allows readers to locate the source easily.
In conclusion, encountering an article without an author can be challenging when using the MLA citation format. However, by following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can effectively cite such articles while maintaining the integrity of your research. Always remember to check the available information and use the appropriate elements in the citation to ensure accuracy and completeness.
