When citing sources with multiple authors in MLA format, it's essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and consistency. For sources with two authors, the MLA citation style requires a particular formatting approach. In this article, we'll delve into the world of MLA citation for two authors, exploring the rules, examples, and best practices to help you master this formatting style.
Introduction to MLA Citation
The Modern Language Association (MLA) citation style is widely used in the humanities, such as literature, language, and cultural studies. MLA provides a set of guidelines for formatting research papers, including citations, references, and bibliographies. When citing sources with two authors, MLA recommends a specific format to ensure clarity and readability.
Citing Two Authors in MLA Format
To cite a source with two authors in MLA format, you’ll need to include the authors’ last names, first names, and the page numbers (if applicable). The general format for citing two authors is:
Last Name, First Name, and First Name Last Name. Title of Source. Publisher, Year of Publication.
For example:
Smith, John, and Jane Doe. The History of Literature. Penguin Books, 2020.
| Element | Example |
|---|---|
| Last Names | Smith, Doe |
| First Names | John, Jane |
| Title of Source | The History of Literature |
| Publisher | Penguin Books |
| Year of Publication | 2020 |
When citing a source with two authors in the text, you can use the following format:
(Smith and Doe 23)
or
Smith and Doe argue that... (23)
In-Text Citations for Two Authors
In-text citations for two authors in MLA format are straightforward. You can use the authors’ last names, separated by “and,” and include the page numbers (if applicable). For example:
(Smith and Doe 12-15)
or
Smith and Doe discuss the topic in detail (12-15)
Works Cited Page for Two Authors
The Works Cited page in MLA format requires a specific format for sources with two authors. The general format is:
Last Name, First Name, and First Name Last Name. Title of Source. Publisher, Year of Publication.
For example:
Smith, John, and Jane Doe. The History of Literature. Penguin Books, 2020.
When formatting the Works Cited page, be sure to:
- Use a hanging indent for each entry
- Double-space the entries
- Use title case for the title of the source
- Include the publisher and year of publication
What is the correct format for citing two authors in MLA style?
+The correct format for citing two authors in MLA style is: Last Name, First Name, and First Name Last Name. Title of Source. Publisher, Year of Publication.
How do I format in-text citations for two authors in MLA style?
+In-text citations for two authors in MLA style should include the authors’ last names, separated by “and,” and the page numbers (if applicable). For example: (Smith and Doe 23) or Smith and Doe argue that… (23)
What is the purpose of the Works Cited page in MLA format?
+The Works Cited page in MLA format provides a list of sources used in the research paper, allowing readers to locate and consult the sources. It is an essential component of MLA style, as it promotes academic integrity and transparency.
