How to Cite Source Without Author in MLA Format
Citing sources without an author in MLA format can be a bit challenging, but it’s certainly not impossible. Whether you’re working on a research paper or any academic writing, it’s crucial to provide proper citations to give credit to the original authors of the information you use. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of citing sources without an author in MLA format, ensuring that your work is both accurate and academically credible.
Understanding MLA Format
Before diving into the specifics of citing sources without an author, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of MLA format. MLA (Modern Language Association) is a widely-accepted citation style used in the humanities, particularly in English and foreign language studies. The latest edition of MLA guidelines, MLA 8, has introduced some changes that make citing sources more straightforward.
Citing a Source Without an Author
When citing a source without an author, you’ll need to include the title of the source in the parenthetical citation. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Start with the title of the source in quotation marks.
2. Follow the title with a period.
3. Place the page number (if available) after the title.
4. Close the parenthesis.
For example, if you’re citing a poem titled “The Raven” without an author, your citation would look like this:
“The Raven.” (123)
Formatting the Works Cited Page
When listing the source on the Works Cited page, you’ll need to include the title of the source, the title of the container, other contributors (if applicable), version or edition, numbers (if applicable), publisher, publication date, and location (if applicable). Here’s an example:
“The Raven.” Poetry Foundation, Poetry Foundation, 2018, www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/44023/the-raven.
Remembering to Cite
Always remember to cite your sources, even if they don’t have an author. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original creators but also helps readers locate the source material for further research. By following the guidelines for citing sources without an author in MLA format, you can ensure that your work is both accurate and academically credible.
Conclusion
Citing sources without an author in MLA format may seem daunting at first, but with a bit of practice, it becomes second nature. By understanding the basics of MLA format and following the proper citation structure, you can effectively credit the original authors of the information you use. Always remember to cite your sources, and your academic work will be well-received by your professors and peers.
