How to Cite an Article MLA Without Author
Citing an article in MLA format without an author can be a bit tricky, but it’s important to follow the guidelines correctly to ensure your citation is accurate and complete. Whether you’re writing a research paper or a blog post, proper citation is essential for giving credit to the original source and avoiding plagiarism. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to cite an article in MLA format when the author’s name is not available.
Understanding MLA Format
Before we dive into the specifics of citing an article without an author, it’s crucial to have a basic understanding of MLA format. MLA (Modern Language Association) is a widely-used citation style in the humanities, particularly in English literature, cultural studies, and other language-related fields. The MLA format requires in-text citations and a Works Cited page to list all the sources you’ve referenced in your paper.
Formatting the In-Text Citation
When citing an article without an author in MLA format, you’ll follow a specific structure. The in-text citation should include the page number where the information is found. Here’s how to format it:
– For a single-page reference: (Page number)
– For a multi-page reference: (Page range)
For example, if you found the information on page 10 of the article, your in-text citation would be (10). If the information spans pages 10-15, the citation would be (10-15).
Formatting the Works Cited Entry
The Works Cited page is where you list all the sources you’ve cited in your paper. When citing an article without an author, the entry should follow this format:
– Title of the Article
– Title of the Journal, Magazine, or Newspaper, in italics
– Date of Publication
– Volume and Issue Number (if available)
– Page Numbers
– URL (if the article is available online)
Here’s an example of a Works Cited entry for an article without an author:
– “Title of the Article.” Title of the Journal, Date of Publication, Volume (Issue), Page Numbers. URL.
Remembering the Exceptions
While the general format for citing an article without an author in MLA format is relatively straightforward, there are a few exceptions to keep in mind:
– If the article is part of a larger work, such as an edited book or a collection of essays, include the editor’s name after the title of the article.
– If the article is part of a website, include the website’s name and the URL in the Works Cited entry.
Conclusion
Citing an article in MLA format without an author requires attention to detail and adherence to the guidelines. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your citation is accurate and complete. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original source but also helps you avoid plagiarism and maintain the integrity of your work.
