How to Cite Two Authors in One Sentence MLA
When writing a paper in MLA format, it is important to properly cite sources to avoid plagiarism. One common scenario is when you need to cite two authors in one sentence. Properly formatting this citation can be challenging, but with the right guidelines, you can do it effectively. In this article, we will discuss how to cite two authors in one sentence using MLA format.
When citing two authors in one sentence, you should list both authors’ last names, followed by their first initials. Separate the authors’ names with a comma and a space. After listing the authors, include the publication date in parentheses. Finally, provide the page number if applicable.
For example, if you are citing a source with two authors, such as Smith and Johnson, your sentence would look like this:
Smith and Johnson (2020) argue that the new policy will have a significant impact on the economy.
In cases where the authors have the same last name, include their first initials to differentiate between them. For instance:
Smith, J., and Smith, R. (2019) conducted a study on the effects of climate change on coastal communities.
When the authors are cited in a separate sentence, you can still use the same format. For example:
Smith and Johnson (2020) argue that the new policy will have a significant impact on the economy. This is a crucial point in the debate over economic policy.
It is important to note that when citing two authors in one sentence, you should not use “and” between the authors’ names. Instead, simply list their names separated by a comma and a space.
Remember that proper citation is essential for academic integrity. By following these guidelines on how to cite two authors in one sentence MLA, you can ensure that your paper is well-cited and avoids any issues with plagiarism.
In conclusion, citing two authors in one sentence MLA is a straightforward process when you follow the proper format. By listing both authors’ last names, first initials, publication date, and page number (if applicable), you can create a clear and accurate citation. Always double-check your work to ensure that you have followed the MLA guidelines correctly and maintained academic integrity.
