How to in-text cite with 2 authors in MLA format is an essential skill for students and researchers who are writing academic papers. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original authors but also helps readers locate the sources easily. In this article, we will guide you through the process of in-text citing with two authors in MLA format, ensuring that your paper is well-cited and meets the required standards.
In MLA format, when you cite a source with two authors, you include both names in the parentheses following the quote or paraphrase. The first time you cite the source, you list both authors’ last names, separated by a comma. For subsequent citations of the same source, you use only the first author’s last name followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”) to avoid repetition.
Here’s an example of how to in-text cite with two authors in MLA format:
According to Smith and Johnson, the impact of climate change on agriculture is significant (45).
In this example, “Smith and Johnson” are the authors of the source, and “45” is the page number where the information can be found. When you cite the same source again, you use the following format:
Smith et al. argue that the effects of climate change on food security are profound (47).
It’s important to note that if the authors have different last names that begin with the same letter, you should include an initial or a hyphen to distinguish between them. For example:
Miller and Miller contend that the rise in sea levels is a major concern (32).
In this case, the hyphen helps to differentiate between the two authors with the same last name.
When citing a source with two authors in a block quote, you should still include both authors’ names in the parenthetical citation. However, the block quote should be formatted as follows:
Smith and Johnson explain that climate change is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences:
“The effects of climate change on the environment, economy, and society are undeniable, and addressing this challenge requires a global effort.” (Smith and Johnson 46)
Remember that the author’s name and the page number should be placed at the end of the block quote, just like in a regular in-text citation.
In conclusion, in-text citing with two authors in MLA format is a straightforward process. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your paper is well-cited and meets the required academic standards. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original authors but also enhances the credibility of your research.
