How to Cite a Book with Many Authors in MLA Format
Citing a book with multiple authors in MLA format can sometimes be confusing, especially for those who are new to academic writing. However, following the proper guidelines can help ensure that your citation is accurate and complete. In this article, we will discuss the steps to cite a book with many authors in MLA format.
Step 1: Start with the Author’s Names
When citing a book with multiple authors in MLA format, begin with the last name followed by the first name of each author. If there are three or fewer authors, include all of their names in the citation. For example:
Smith, John, Jane Doe, and Michael Brown. “Title of the Book.” Publisher, 2020.
If there are more than three authors, list the first author followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”) after the first author’s name. For instance:
Smith, John, et al. “Title of the Book.” Publisher, 2020.
Step 2: Include the Title of the Book
After listing the authors, include the title of the book in quotation marks. The title should be followed by a period. For example:
Smith, John, et al. “Title of the Book.” Publisher, 2020.
Step 3: Specify the Edition (if applicable)
If the book is an edition other than the first, include the edition number after the title. Use a comma to separate the title and the edition number. For example:
Smith, John, et al. “Title of the Book,” 3rd ed. Publisher, 2020.
Step 4: Include the Publisher and Publication Date
Finally, include the name of the publisher and the publication date. The publisher should be followed by a comma, and the publication date should be in parentheses. For example:
Smith, John, et al. “Title of the Book,” 3rd ed. Publisher, (2020).
Step 5: In-text Citation
When citing the book in your text, use the author’s last name and the page number(s) where the information is found. For example:
According to Smith et al., (2020, p. 10), the findings suggest…
Remember to follow the same format for in-text citations as you do for the reference list.
In conclusion, citing a book with many authors in MLA format involves listing the authors’ names, including the title of the book, specifying the edition (if applicable), and providing the publisher and publication date. By following these steps, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and complete.
