Citing sources correctly is crucial for academic integrity. Knowing how to cite two authors in MLA style is a fundamental skill for any student or researcher. This guide will walk you through the process, providing clear examples and addressing common questions.
Understanding MLA In-Text Citations with Two Authors
The MLA (Modern Language Association) style uses a parenthetical citation system for in-text citations. When citing two authors, the process is straightforward: simply include both authors' last names, separated by "and," within the parentheses.
Example:
The impact of social media on political discourse has been extensively studied (Smith and Jones 2023).
Key points to remember:
- Order: Always list the authors in the same order they appear on the source's title page.
- Ampersand: Use the ampersand (&) instead of "and" within the parentheses.
- Punctuation: Place the parenthetical citation after the sentence's concluding punctuation.
MLA Works Cited Page Entry for Two Authors
The Works Cited page, located at the end of your paper, provides complete bibliographic information for each source. The entry for two authors follows a specific format:
Example:
Smith, John, and Jane Doe. Title of Book. Publisher, Year.
Let's break this down:
- Author Names: List the authors' last names first, followed by their first names (inverted). Use a comma after the first author's last name and an "and" before the second author's name.
- Title of Book (or Article, Website, etc.): Italicize the title of a book, journal, or website. Use quotation marks for titles of articles, chapters, or web pages.
- Publisher: This is the name of the publishing company.
- Year: The year of publication.
Example using a journal article:
Smith, John, and Jane Doe. "Title of Article." Title of Journal, vol. 10, no. 2, 2023, pp. 123-145.
Important Considerations:
- Consistency: Maintain consistent formatting throughout your Works Cited page.
- Accuracy: Double-check all information for accuracy, as errors can impact the credibility of your work.
- Multiple Works by Same Authors: If you're citing multiple works by the same two authors, use a shortened title to differentiate them in the Works Cited page.
What if there are more than two authors?
If a source has three or more authors, you can choose to list all authors in your in-text citation, or use the first author's last name followed by "et al." (Latin for "and others").
Example (three or more authors, in-text citation):
(Smith et al. 2023)
On your Works Cited page, list all authors.
Mastering MLA Citations: A Step Towards Academic Excellence
Proper MLA citation demonstrates your understanding of academic integrity and strengthens the credibility of your research. By following these guidelines, you can confidently cite two authors (and more!) in your work, ensuring your academic papers are well-formatted and error-free. Remember to always consult the official MLA Handbook for the most up-to-date information and specific guidelines.
