How to MLA Cite a Book with 2 Authors
Citing a book with two authors in MLA format is a crucial skill for students and researchers to master. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original authors but also helps readers locate the source material. In this article, we will guide you through the process of citing a book with two authors in MLA format, ensuring that your work adheres to the guidelines set forth by the Modern Language Association.
Formatting the In-text Citation
When citing a book with two authors in your text, you should include both authors’ last names and the page number where the information is found. The format for the in-text citation is as follows:
– (Author1 Last Name & Author2 Last Name, page number)
For example, if you are referencing a book by John Smith and Jane Doe, and the information you are citing is found on page 15, your in-text citation would be:
– (Smith & Doe, 15)
Formatting the Works Cited Entry
The Works Cited list is where you provide full details about the book you have cited. The format for citing a book with two authors in MLA format is as follows:
– Last Name, First Name. Book Title. Publisher, Year of Publication.
Here is an example of how to format the Works Cited entry for a book with two authors:
– Doe, Jane, and John Smith. “The Art of Writing.” Publisher, 2020.
Formatting the Works Cited Entry with Edition Information
If the book you are citing has an edition other than the first, you should include the edition information in your Works Cited entry. The format for including edition information is as follows:
– Last Name, First Name. Book Title. Edition, Publisher, Year of Publication.
For example, if the book by Doe and Smith is in its third edition, your Works Cited entry would be:
– Doe, Jane, and John Smith. “The Art of Writing.” 3rd ed., Publisher, 2020.
Formatting the Works Cited Entry with a Translator
In some cases, a book may have a translator. If this is the case, you should include the translator’s name after the author’s name, separated by a comma. The format for including a translator is as follows:
– Last Name, First Name, Trans. Book Title. Edition, Publisher, Year of Publication.
For example, if the book by Doe and Smith has been translated by Emily Johnson, your Works Cited entry would be:
– Doe, Jane, and John Smith, Trans. by Emily Johnson. “The Art of Writing.” 3rd ed., Publisher, 2020.
Conclusion
Citing a book with two authors in MLA format is an essential skill for anyone conducting research or writing academic papers. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent. Remember to always double-check the specific requirements of your instructor or publisher, as citation formats may vary slightly. Happy writing!
