How to Cite MLA When There is No Author
When citing sources in MLA format, it is typically necessary to include the author’s name as part of the citation. However, there are instances where the author’s name is not available or not applicable. In such cases, it is important to follow MLA guidelines to ensure your citation is accurate and complete. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cite MLA when there is no author.
1. Start with the Title
In MLA format, when there is no author, the title of the source should be placed first in the citation. The title should be written in title case, with the first letter of each major word capitalized. If the title is from a book, include the subtitle as well, following the same formatting rules.
2. Include the Source Type
After the title, indicate the type of source you are citing. Common source types include book, article, website, and so on. Use parentheses to enclose the source type, and capitalize the first letter of each major word.
3. Provide the Publication Information
Next, include the publication information for the source. This may include the publisher, publication date, and page numbers for a book or article. For a website, include the URL and access date. If the publication information is not available, omit this section.
4. Add the Date of Access (for online sources)
For online sources, it is important to include the date of access. This is the date you accessed the source, and it helps readers locate the information. Place the date of access in parentheses after the publication information.
5. Use a Parenthetical Citation
In the text of your paper, use a parenthetical citation to reference the source. Include the author’s last name (if available) and the page number (if applicable). If there is no author, use the title of the source instead.
Example:
– (Title of Source)
– (Title of Source, page number)
– (Author’s Last Name, page number)
6. Create a Works Cited Entry
Finally, create a Works Cited entry for the source. This entry should include the same information as the in-text citation, formatted according to MLA guidelines. For sources without an author, the title should be placed first, followed by the publication information and date of access (if applicable).
Example Works Cited Entry:
– Title of Source. Source Type, Publisher, Publication Date. URL. Date of Access.
By following these steps, you can successfully cite MLA sources when there is no author. Remember to always consult the MLA Handbook for the most up-to-date guidelines and formatting rules.
