How to Cite an Article Written by Multiple Authors MLA
Citing an article written by multiple authors in MLA format can be a bit tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can ensure that your citation is accurate and follows the guidelines set forth by the Modern Language Association (MLA). Proper citation not only gives credit to the original authors but also helps readers locate the source of the information. In this article, we will walk you through the process of citing an article with multiple authors in MLA format.
Formatting the In-text Citation
When citing an article with multiple authors in MLA format, the in-text citation should include the author’s last name and the page number where the information is found. If there are three or more authors, you can use “et al.” (meaning “and others”) after the first author’s name. Here’s an example:
> According to Smith, Johnson, and Brown (23), the impact of social media on young adults is significant (et al.).
Formatting the Works Cited Entry
The Works Cited entry for an article with multiple authors should include the author’s names, the article title, the journal title, the volume and issue number (if applicable), the publication date, and the page range. Here’s an example:
> Smith, John, Jane Johnson, and Emily Brown. “The Impact of Social Media on Young Adults.” Journal of Communication Studies, vol. 7, no. 2, 2020, pp. 23-35.
Formatting the Works Cited Entry for Online Sources
If the article is available online, you should include the DOI (Digital Object Identifier) or URL (Uniform Resource Locator) in the Works Cited entry. Here’s an example:
> Smith, John, Jane Johnson, and Emily Brown. “The Impact of Social Media on Young Adults.” Journal of Communication Studies, vol. 7, no. 2, 2020, pp. 23-35. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcom.12345
Remembering the MLA Format Rules
When citing an article with multiple authors in MLA format, keep in mind the following rules:
1. Use the author’s last name followed by the first name, separated by a comma.
2. If there are three or more authors, use “et al.” after the first author’s name.
3. Use a comma to separate each author’s name.
4. Capitalize the first and last words in the article title and any subtitle.
5. Use quotation marks around the article title.
6. Include the journal title in italics.
7. If the article is available online, include the DOI or URL in the Works Cited entry.
By following these guidelines, you can successfully cite an article written by multiple authors in MLA format. Remember that proper citation is essential for academic integrity and helps your readers locate the sources you’ve used in your research.
