How to Cite a Book with Multiple Authors in MLA
When citing a book with multiple authors in MLA format, it is important to follow the proper guidelines to ensure accuracy and consistency. The Modern Language Association (MLA) provides specific rules for citing sources, including books with multiple authors. In this article, we will discuss the steps to correctly cite a book with multiple authors in MLA format.
Step 1: Begin with the Author’s Last Name, Followed by the First Name
The first step in citing a book with multiple authors in MLA format is to list the authors’ names. Start with the last name, followed by the first name. If there are two authors, list both names in the order they appear on the title page. If there are three or more authors, list only the first author followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”).
For example:
– Smith, John, and Jane Doe. “Title of the Book.”
– Johnson, Emily, et al. “Title of the Book.”
Step 2: Include the Book Title
After listing the authors, include the title of the book in italics. The title should not be underlined, bolded, or placed in quotation marks.
For example:
– Smith, John, and Jane Doe. Title of the Book.
Step 3: Provide the Publisher and Publication Date
Next, include the name of the publisher and the publication date of the book. The publisher’s name should be followed by a comma, and the publication date should be in parentheses.
For example:
– Smith, John, and Jane Doe. Title of the Book. Publisher Name, (Publication Year).
Step 4: Format the In-text Citation
When citing the book in the text of your paper, use the author’s last name and the page number(s) where the information is found. If you are citing the entire book, simply use the author’s last name.
For example:
– (Smith 45)
– (Doe 78)
Step 5: Create the Works Cited Entry
Finally, create a Works Cited entry for the book. The format for the Works Cited entry is similar to the in-text citation but includes additional information such as the city of publication and the medium of publication.
For example:
– Doe, Jane, and John Smith. Title of the Book. Publisher Name, (Publication Year). Print.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you correctly cite a book with multiple authors in MLA format. Remember to always double-check the guidelines provided by your instructor or institution to ensure compliance with their specific requirements.
