How to Cite a News Video MLA
Citing a news video in MLA format can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the specific guidelines. However, with a few simple steps, you can ensure that your citation is accurate and meets the requirements of the Modern Language Association (MLA). In this article, we will walk you through the process of citing a news video in MLA format.
First, gather all the necessary information about the news video you want to cite. This includes the title of the video, the name of the channel or website, the date of the video, and the URL. It’s also helpful to note any specific segments or timestamps if you’re referencing a particular part of the video.
Next, follow the basic MLA format for citing a source. For a news video, the format will generally look like this:
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Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of the Video.” Name of the Channel or Website, Date of the Video, URL.
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Let’s break down this format into its individual components:
1. Author’s Last Name, First Name: If the video is created by a specific individual, include their name in this order. If the video is produced by a news organization, you can omit the author’s name.
2. “Title of the Video”: Use quotation marks around the title of the video. If the title is particularly long, you can use a shortened version as long as it still accurately represents the content.
3. Name of the Channel or Website: Include the name of the news organization or website that published the video. This can be found in the URL or on the video’s page.
4. Date of the Video: Provide the date the video was published or uploaded. This can be found in the URL or on the video’s page. If the video was uploaded to a platform like YouTube, you may need to visit the video’s page to find the date.
5. URL: Include the full URL of the video. This is essential for readers to access the video you’re citing.
Here’s an example of a properly formatted MLA citation for a news video:
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Smith, John. “Breaking News: Earthquake Hits California.” CNN, 15 July 2021, www.cnn.com/video/watch/earthquake-california.
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Remember that MLA citations can vary depending on the source and the specific details you have. If you’re citing a news video that is part of a larger news website, you may need to include additional information, such as the section or category the video belongs to.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively cite a news video in MLA format. Always double-check the source and format to ensure accuracy and to meet the requirements of your instructor or publication.
