• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • This Or That Game New
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • Education and Communications
  • College University and Postgraduate
  • Academic Writing
  • MLA Style Manual

How to Cite Multiple Authors in MLA

Last Updated: January 7, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was reviewed by Gerald Posner and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Gerald Posner is an Author & Journalist based in Miami, Florida. With over 35 years of experience, he specializes in investigative journalism, nonfiction books, and editorials. He holds a law degree from UC College of the Law, San Francisco, and a BA in Political Science from the University of California-Berkeley. He’s the author of thirteen books, including several New York Times bestsellers, the winner of the Florida Book Award for General Nonfiction, and has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History. He was also shortlisted for the Best Business Book of 2020 by the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 42,130 times.

If you're writing a research paper in the humanities or liberal arts, you may be formatting your citations using the Modern Language Association (MLA) style. This style requires a full citation to sources used in a "Works Cited" page at the end of your paper, as well as parenthetical in-text citations whenever a source is paraphrased or quoted directly. Your format will vary depending on whether you're citing a work with 2 authors or a work with 3 or more authors. [1] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source

Works Cited Entry

Step 1 Start your entry with the first author's last name.

  • For example, if you used a book as a source that was written by Harry Potter and Luna Lovegood, your Works Cited entry would start "Potter, Harry."

Tip: Use the author's names in the order they appear on the title page. This is the order that the authors have agreed to, and whose name is listed first is important.

Step 2 Provide the second author's name in first name-last name format.

  • To continue the previous example, you would write the names of the two authors as "Potter, Harry and Luna Lovegood."

Step 3 Use the abbreviation

  • For example, suppose you were using a book as a source that was written by Severus Snape, Minerva McGonagall, and Horace Slughorn. Your Works Cited entry would start "Snape, Severus et al." [5] X Research source

In-Text Citation

Step 1 List both authors' names for works with 2 authors.

  • For example, you might write "The class intended to teach students how to defend themselves against the dark arts, however, was ineffective (Potter and Lovegood 47)." [7] X Research source

Step 2 Use

  • For example, you might write "Hogwarts professors were deeply disturbed that Voldemort appeared to have infiltrated the school (Snape et al. 92)." [9] X Research source

Step 3 Omit authors' names from your parenthetical citation when they appear in your text.

  • For example, you might write "Potter and Lovegood described the Defense Against the Dark Arts class as worthless when it came to teaching them anything they could use to protect themselves from a wizard as powerful as Voldemort (47).

Tip: If the work has 3 or more authors, don't forget to add the abbreviation "et al." after the first author's name, even in the text of your paper.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

Quote and Cite a Poem in an Essay Using MLA Format

  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_in_text_citations_the_basics.html
  • ↑ https://research.wou.edu/mla/mla-multipleauthors
  • ↑ https://libguides.uwf.edu/c.php?g=840082&p=6013572
  • ↑ http://libanswers.snhu.edu/faq/102973
  • ↑ https://irsc.libguides.com/mla/intextexamples

About This Article

Gerald Posner

  • Send fan mail to authors

Did this article help you?

Am I a Narcissist or an Empath Quiz

Featured Articles

Arrange Furniture in a Small Bedroom

Trending Articles

What is Golden Child Syndrome? 7 Signs You Were the Golden Child

Watch Articles

Wrap a Round Gift

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Citation guides

All you need to know about citations

How to do in-text citations with multiple authors in MLA

MLA in-text citation multiple authors

The format of MLA's in-text citations varies depending on the number of authors. In the following sections you will learn how to format in-text citations in MLA style, with one author, two authors, and multiple authors.

One Author in-text citation in MLA

To format an in-text citation of a source with one author, include the author’s last name, and the page number or page range in parentheses. For example:

  • (Wollstonecraft 26)

If the author’s name is already stated in the sentence, give only the page number or page range in parenthesis at the end of the sentence, or at the next natural pause. For example:

  • As Wollstonecraft stated, “I do not wish them [women] to have power over men; but over themselves.” (26).

Two authors in-text citation in MLA

To format an in-text citation of a source with two authors, include the authors' last names separated by the word and , and the page number or page range in parentheses. For example:

  • (King and Straub 93-101)

If the authors' names are already stated in the sentence, give only the page number or page range in parenthesis at the end of the sentence, or at the next natural pause. For example:

  • Stephen King and Peter Straub shared the same opinion (93-101).

Three or more in-text citation in MLA

To format an in-text citation of a source with three or more authors, include the first author's last name followed by et al., and the page number or page range in parentheses. For example:

  • (Sumantran et al. 106-114)
  • Sumantran et al. carried out a research about the future of the car (106-114).

mla cover page

This citation style guide is based on the MLA Handbook (9 th edition).

More useful guides

  • MLA Style Guide, 8th Edition: In-text Examples
  • MLA In-Text Citations: The Basics
  • How do I cite a source with multiple authors in MLA style (in-text)?

More great BibGuru guides

  • Harvard: how to cite an online magazine article
  • Chicago: how to cite a documentary
  • APA: how to cite an afterword

Automatic citations in seconds

Citation generators

Alternative to.

  • NoodleTools
  • Getting started

From our blog

  • 📚 How to write a book report
  • 📝 APA Running Head
  • 📑 How to study for a test

institution logo

  • Introduction
  • Formatting Your Paper
  • In-Text Citations
  • Films, Movies & Videos
  • Multiple Authors
  • YouTube Videos
  • Avoiding Plagiarism
  • Get Help Now

MLA 9th Edition Citation Guide Multiple Authors

Source with two authors.

Works Cited Page Format:

First Author's Last Name, First Name, and Second Author's First Name, Last Name.  Format the remainder according to resource type.
Champaneri, Dushyant D., and Naren K. Patel. “Photo Selective Shade Net: An Effective Tool to Reduce the Impact of Global Warming and Pesticide Residues in Vegetable Production: A Review.”  Agricultural Reviews , vol. 43, no. 2, 2022, pp. 135-44.  EBSCOhost , https://doi.org/10.18805/ag.R-2363.

In-text Citation Example:

...(Champaneria and Patel 137).

Three or More Authors

Author's Last Name, Author's First Name, et al.  Format the remainder according to resource type. 
Lin, Eugenia, et al. “Imposter Syndrome Among Surgeons Is Associated With Intolerance of Uncertainty and Lower Confidence in Problem Solving.”  Clinical Orthopaedics & Related Research , vol. 481, no. 4, 2023, pp. 664–71.  EBSCOhost , https://doi.org/10.1097/CORR.0000000000002390.
...(Lin et al. 665). 
  • << Previous: Films, Movies & Videos
  • Next: Podcast >>
  • Last Updated: Jan 26, 2024 4:00 PM
  • URL: https://library.csp.edu/mla

citing two authors in mla

  • Find Resources

Library and Academic Support Services Concordia University, St. Paul 1282 Concordia Aveneu Saint Paul, MN 55104

Connect with us

© Concordia University, St. Paul

MLA Citation Style, 9th Edition

  • MLA Style, 9th Edition
  • In-text citations
  • Books - Multiple Authors
  • Books - with editors, translators, etc.
  • Book - Essay, Short Story, Poem, etc
  • Books - later editions
  • Articles - Multiple Authors
  • Articles - from scholarly journals
  • Articles - from newspapers
  • Articles - from magazines
  • YouTube Video
  • Television Shows
  • Images from the Web
  • Works Cited: Websites
  • Works Cited: Social Media / Informal Communication
  • Don't See an Example for Your Source?!
  • Report an Error / Question

Two Authors

When a work has two authors, include them in the order they appear on the work, and invert the first author's name but write out the second author's name normally.

Works Cited Format (2 authors, scholarly journal):

In-Text Citation Examples:

Author within the text, direct quote:

Authors not in the text, direct quote:

Three or More Authors

Invert the first author's name add a comma and "et al."

Works Cited Format (3 or more authors, scholarly journal):

In-text Citation Examples:

Authors within the text, direct quote:

  • << Previous: Works Cited: Articles in Periodicals
  • Next: Articles - from scholarly journals >>
  • Last Updated: Aug 24, 2023 9:54 AM
  • URL: https://libguides.uwf.edu/mla9

MLA 9 Citation Style: Two Authors

  • Textbook With One Author
  • Textbook With Two Authors
  • Textbook With Three or More Authors
  • Textbook as an Anthology or Edited Book
  • Textbook Work Within an Anthology or Edited Book
  • Textbook Two or More from an Anthology or Edited Book
  • Textbook with One Author (Mobile)
  • Textbook with Two Authors (Mobile)
  • Textbook with Three or More Authors (Mobile)
  • Textbook as an Anthology or Edited Book (Mobile)
  • Textbook Work Within an Anthology or Edited Book (Mobile)
  • Textbook Two or More from an Anthology or Edited Book (Mobile)
  • Two Authors
  • Three or More Authors
  • Anthology or Edited Book
  • Work in an Anthology or Edited Book
  • Two or More Selections from the Same Anthology or Edited Book
  • Journal Article (Print)
  • Journal Article (Online)
  • Newspaper Articles (Print)
  • Newspaper Articles (Online)
  • Database Article with One Author
  • Database Article with Two Authors
  • Database Article with More Than Three Authors
  • Database Previously Published Scholarly Article (Blooms, MasterPlots, Literary Reference Center)
  • Online Government Publication
  • Website with an Author’s/Contributor’s Name
  • Website with No Author’s/Contributor’s Name
  • Web Page with Author
  • Web Page with No Author’s/Contributor’s Name
  • Art – From a Book
  • Art – From a Web Page
  • Picture/Photo Online -- General
  • Motion Picture -- DVD
  • Motion Picture -- Streaming
  • Video -- Online (YouTube, etc.)
  • An Interview You Conducted
  • Lecture Notes, PowerPoints, or Handouts from Class
  • In-Text Citations
  • Works Cited Page
  • Popular vs. Scholarly Sources
  • Direct Quotes, Paraphrasing, Summarizing

MLA Citation -- Book with Two Authors

Works Cited Format

Last name of first author, First name of first author, and First and Last name of second author. Title of Book .

     Edition (if any), Publisher, Date.

In-Text Citation Format 

(Author’s Last Name p. # * )

* Please note, the in-text citation should be just the number itself and should not include the p., as in the example below.

Works Cited Example

Kennedy, David M., and Lizabeth Cohen. The American Pageant . 16 th ed., Cengage Learning, 2016.

In-Text Citation Example 

(Kennedy and Cohen 59)

MLA In-Text Citations

When writing an MLA paper using citations, you use two types of citations: 

  • in-text (or parenthetical) citation
  • Works Cited citation. 

These citations are directly linked.  Any in-text citation should reflect a citation in your Works Cited page at the end of your MLA paper.

The in-text citation is a brief reference to your source which then leads your reader to your Works Cited page for the full citation.  

A Word About Punctuation

The punctuation in your citations does matter.  Make sure you pay attention to where the periods and commas are in the examples. 

  • << Previous: One Author
  • Next: Three or More Authors >>
  • Last Updated: Mar 16, 2023 12:52 PM
  • URL: https://warren.libguides.com/MLA9

Warren County Community College Haytaian & Maier Library 475 Route 57 West Washington, New Jersey 07882 Text: 908-652-4445 [email protected]

  • MyExperience

MLA Citation Style, 9th Edition: Multiple Authors or Editors

  • In-Text References
  • Works Cited
  • One Author or Editor
  • Multiple Authors or Editors
  • Author and Editor
  • Author and Translator
  • Organization as Author
  • Anonymous Work
  • Chapter from an Edited Work
  • Introduction, Preface, Foreword, or Afterword
  • Multivolume Work
  • Edition Other than the First
  • Dictionary or Encyclopedia
  • Journal Article
  • Magazine Article
  • Newspaper Article
  • Book Review
  • Basic Webpage
  • Video Recording
  • Sound Recording
  • YouTube Video
  • Interview or Personal Communication
  • Lecture or Presentation
  • Thesis or Dissertation
  • Indirect Source
  • Government Document
  • AI Generated Content

Multiple Authors or Editors - Examples

Example 1 – Two Authors

In-Text:       

(Dobson and Kamboureli 89)

Works Cited:

Example 2 – Two Editors

(Shatz and Wilkinson 156)

Example 3 – Three or more Authors or Editors

( Bennett et al. 303 )

NOTE: In the case of more than three authors or editors, it is also acceptable to include all of the authors' or editors' names in the in-text parenthetical reference and works cited entry, if you choose to do so. Whichever you choose, be consistent.

Help & Guide Contents

Home General Guidelines     In-Text Reference     Works Cited Books     One Author or Editor     Multiple Authors or Editors     Author and Editor     Author and Translator     Organization as Author     Anonymous Work     Chapter from an Edited Work     Introduction, Preface, Foreword, or Afterword     Multivolume Work     Edition Other than the First     Dictionary or Encyclopedia     E-Book Articles     Journal Article     Magazine Article     Newspaper Article     Book Review Websites     Basic Webpage     Blog Post     Tweet Audiovisual Media     Video Recording     Sound Recording     YouTube Video Other Sources     Interview or Personal Communication     Lecture or Presentation     Thesis or Dissertation     Scripture     Indirect Source     Government Document Plagiarism

  • << Previous: One Author or Editor
  • Next: Author and Editor >>
  • Last Updated: Feb 15, 2024 10:32 AM
  • URL: https://library.ulethbridge.ca/mlastyle9

Logo Image

American Author House: The Final Revival of Opal & Nev

American Author House: Philip Roth: The Biography

American Author House: The Hill We Climb: An Inaugural Poem for the Country

American Author House: The Midnight Library: A Novel

American Author House: Win

American Author House: The Hate U Give

American Author House: The Lost Apothecary: A Novel

American Author House: Good Company: A Novel

websiteimg

  • Let's Get Started
  • Book Writing
  • Ghost Writing
  • Autobiography & Memoir
  • Ebook Writing
  • Article Writing/Publication
  • Book Editing
  • Book Publishing
  • Book Video Trailer
  • Author Website
  • Book Marketing
  • Book Cover Design
  • Custom Book Illustration
  • Professional Audio Book

How to Cite Multiple Authors in MLA: A Complete Guide?

image

  • October 17, 2023

facebook sharing icon

Table of Contents:

A quick guide for your understanding, citing two authors in mla format, citing three or more authors in mla format, citing multiple works by the same author, citing corporate authors, including in-text citations, creating a works cited page, using online sources with multiple authors, importance of proper citation, giving credit to the original authors, avoiding plagiarism, establishing credibility, allowing verification and further research , building upon existing knowledge, ensuring clarity and transparency, supporting your argument, promoting future research, navigating the sea of information, acknowledging intellectual debts, facilitating knowledge traceability, the complexity of citing multiple authors in mla, distinguishing similar authors, secondary sources and nested citations, multiple authors, multiple formats, translated works, essential topics and detailed insights.

Cite Multiple Authors

Proper citation serves as the backbone of credible and authoritative content. When writing academic papers or conducting research, it is essential to properly cite multiple authors to give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism. 

Modern Language Association (MLA) style is widely used for research papers in humanities. It provides guidelines for formatting manuscripts and citing research in writing. If you’re interested in understanding more about MLA, you might want to explore the difference between Amazon Choice vs Best Seller .

The basic MLA format includes the author’s last name and the page number within parentheses, placed at the end of the quoted or paraphrased sentence. 

You should have the proper knowledge to  cite multiple authors  in MLA (Modern Language Association) style. Also, it will depend on the number of authors and the specific citation format you are using. 

Here is a complete guide on how to cite multiple authors in MLA:

When dealing with a work written by two authors, citing both names in your in-text citation is essential. 

Here is how you do it:

According to Smith and Johnson (45), …

In the Works Cited page, the citation will look like this:

Smith, John, and Emily Johnson.  Title

of the Book . Publisher, Year.

Citing works with three or more authors might seem tricky, but fear not, for MLA also provides a clear guideline for this scenario. 

In your in-text citation, use the first author’s name followed by “et al.,” which is Latin for “and others”:

(Last Name of the First Author Et al. Page Number)

In the Works Cited page, list the first author’s name followed by “et al.”:

Smith, John, et al.  Title of the Book . Publisher, Year.

Now, let’s address a common dilemma: how to  cite multiple authors  by the same author. In this case, distinguish between the works by adding a shortened version of the title in your in-text citation:

(Author’s Last Name,  Shortened Version of the Title , Page Number)

In the Works Cited page, the citation will include the full title of the work:

Smith, John.  Full Title of the Book . Publisher, Year.

When the source has a corporate author, incorporate the organization’s name in the citation. For example: 

(American Medical Association 112). This approach ensures proper attribution, even when individual authorship is ambiguous.

In-text citations are essential in scholarly writing as they provide readers with immediate information about the source of the information. Properly placed in-text citations enhance the credibility of your work and demonstrate meticulous research.

If you cite multiple sources in one sentence, separate the citations with a semicolon. For example: (Smith and Johnson, 32; Brown et al., year, 78; “Title of Source” 56).

In addition to in-text citations, compiling a comprehensive Works Cited page is crucial. Arrange the sources alphabetically based on the authors’ last names. 

Include all the necessary publication details, such as the work’s title, the author’s name, the publication date, and the source medium (print, web, etc.). The Works Cited page provides readers with a roadmap to explore your referenced sources.

On the Works Cited page, provide a full citation for each source. Include all authors’ names in the order they appear on the source. For example:

  • For a source with two authors: Last Name, First Name, and First Name Last Name. Title of Source. Publisher, Year.
  • For a source with three or more authors: Last Name, First Name, et al. Title of Source. Publisher, Year.
  • For a source with no authors: “Title of Source.” Publisher, Year

In our digital age, online sources have become ubiquitous. Citing them correctly is paramount. 

For online sources with multiple authors, follow the same principles as you would for print sources. Explore more about how to publish a book on Amazon and make money , ensuring that you provide the authors’ names and the page number (if available) in your in-text citation.

A clear understanding of how to  cite multiple authors is integral to academic integrity and responsible research. Discover more about the importance of proper citation at how long does it take to read 100 pages? . It promotes ethical writing, establishes credibility, and allows for the advancement of knowledge by providing a transparent framework for exchanging ideas and information.

The importance of proper citation in academic writing and research cannot be overstated. Proper citation serves several crucial purposes:

By citing your sources correctly, you acknowledge and credit the authors or creators of the works you have used. This demonstrates respect for intellectual property and recognizes the efforts and contributions of others.

Plagiarism, the act of using someone else’s work without acknowledgment, is a serious academic offense. It is a serious ethical breach in academic writing. 

Citations safeguard the integrity of your work by clearly delineating what ideas are yours and what is sourced from others. Proper citation acts as a shield, ensuring you are not inadvertently stepping into the realm of plagiarism.

It ensures that you clearly distinguish your ideas from those of others, thus avoiding plagiarism.

You enhance your credibility as a researcher or writer when you cite reputable and reliable sources. Readers can evaluate the credibility and quality of your work based on the sources you have used and the way you have cited them.

Proper citation enables others to locate and verify the sources you have used. It facilitates the replication of experiments, further exploration of research topics, and the development of new ideas based on existing scholarship.

Citing relevant and related sources allows you to situate your work within the larger scholarly conversation. By acknowledging the existing body of knowledge, you can demonstrate how your work contributes to and builds upon the work of others.

It provides a clear way for readers to follow your line of research, understand your sources, and delve deeper into specific aspects of your work if desired. This transparency allows for more meaningful engagement and evaluation of your ideas.

Citations are not just a form of academic etiquette; they bolster your arguments. When you cite authoritative sources, you provide a solid foundation for your claims. 

Your assertions gain credibility and weight, making your work more persuasive. Well-cited research stands tall, fortified by the pillars of established knowledge.

It is a contribution to the scholarly community. By citing sources accurately, you enable future researchers to explore the same intellectual terrain. 

Your citations become entry points for others, guiding them to relevant literature, theories, and methodologies. Your meticulous citations pave the way for the continuous growth of knowledge.

Proper citation acts as a quality filter, helping readers discern between credible, peer-reviewed sources, and unreliable information. You guide readers through the overwhelming sea of information by citing reputable sources, ensuring they rely on accurate and trustworthy material.

Every academic work is built upon the foundations laid by countless scholars before. Proper citation is a mark of respect, acknowledging the intellectual debts you owe to those who paved the way. 

It’s a nod to the giants on whose shoulders you stand, recognizing their contributions to your scholarly endeavors.

Imagine reading a compelling argument in a research paper without knowing where the information comes from. Citations provide a roadmap for readers, enabling them to trace the origins of ideas, theories, and evidence. 

This traceability fosters transparency, allowing readers to validate the claims made and engage with the material critically.

Below are some complexities discussed by  American Author House  while citing:

citing two authors in mla

Imagine you’re citing two sources, both authored by individuals with identical last names. Navigating this scenario requires meticulous attention to detail. In such cases, the inclusion of first initials becomes crucial. 

These seemingly small details prevent confusion and ensure the accuracy of the citation.

In scholarly discourse, it is common to encounter secondary sources where one author references another author’s work. Nested citations, though intellectually enriching, complicate the citation process. 

Deciding how to credit the primary and secondary sources demands careful consideration. Should you cite the original work directly or rely on the secondary source? Understanding the context is key to making an informed decision.

One of the primary complexities of how to  cite multiple authors  lies in the

diversity of sources. Whether it’s a book, a journal article, a website, or an anthology, each format demands a different approach. 

In the case of books, for instance, citing two authors requires a different format than citing multiple authors in a web source. Understanding the intricacies of each format is essential for accurate citation.

In our globally connected world, citing translated works is common. However, ensuring the proper acknowledgment of both the original author and the translator adds complexity. Translators play a vital role in bridging language barriers, and their contributions deserve recognition. 

Accurate citation necessitates meticulous acknowledgment of both the source’s author and the translator, ensuring scholarly integrity.

To  cite multiple authors  in MLA can be complex due to the various rules depending on the number of authors and the location of the citation. It is crucial to remain consistent in your citation style and cite sources properly by crediting the original authors, avoiding plagiarism, and allowing readers to find and verify information.

limited Time offer

50% off on all services.

REDEEM YOUR COUPON: AAH50

Recommended Blogs

citing two authors in mla

Best Mystery Audiobooks: Must-Listen Titles for Thriller Fans

citing two authors in mla

What Is Unlimited Liability in Business

write a comic book

How to Write a Comic Book in 10 Easy Steps?

Let's have a conversation to streamline your book writing and publishing we offer a comprehensive, fully managed book writing and publishing service designed to help you save valuable time., 50% off on all services redeem your coupon: aah50.

Discuss your app idea with our consultants today

Shapiro Library

FAQ: How do I cite a source with multiple authors in MLA Style (in-text)?

  • 7 Academic Integrity & Plagiarism
  • 63 Academic Support, Writing Help, & Presentation Help
  • 28 Access/Remote Access
  • 7 Accessibility
  • 9 Building/Facilities
  • 8 Career/Job Information
  • 26 Catalog/Print Books
  • 28 Circulation
  • 128 Citing Sources
  • 14 Copyright
  • 309 Databases
  • 24 Directions/Location
  • 18 Faculty Resources/Needs
  • 7 Hours/Contacts
  • 1 Innovation Lab & Makerspace/3D Printing
  • 25 Interlibrary Loan
  • 43 IT/Computer/Printing Support
  • 3 Library Instruction
  • 40 Library Technology Help
  • 8 Multimedia
  • 17 Online Programs
  • 20 Periodicals
  • 25 Policies
  • 8 RefWorks/Citation Managers
  • 5 Research Guides (LibGuides)
  • 221 Research Help
  • 23 University Services

Last Updated: Jun 22, 2023 Views: 348141

MLA Style requires an in-text citation to indicate the sources that were consulted and used in your work.  The in-text citation must correspond with the entry on the Works Cited page,

MLA in-text citations follow the Author-Page style, meaning the author's last name and the page number(s) of the quotation or paraphrase must appear in the text. Page numbers always appear in the parentheses, not in the text of your sentence.

General Format

Parenthetical Citation

(Author page#)

Citation in Prose

Author stated that ... (page#).

For Example

(Ramugondo 189)

Ramugondo stated that ....... (189).

Two Authors

(Leon and Andrews 250-258)

Javier F. Leon and Ronald Andrews argue that ....... (250-258).

Three or More Authors

(Zhang et al. 11)

Zhang and colleagues concluded from their experiments that ....... (11).

More Information

  •   MLA Guide  (Shapiro Library)

Further Help

This information is intended to be a guideline, not expert advice. Please be sure to speak to your professor about the appropriate way to cite sources in your class assignments and projects.

Campus Students

To access Academic Support, visit your Brightspace course and select “Tutoring and Mentoring” from the Academic Support pulldown menu.

Online Students

To access help with citations and more, visit the Academic Support via modules in Brightspace:

  • Academic Support Overview: Getting Help with your Schoolwork This link opens in a new window
  • Share on Facebook

Was this helpful? Yes 14 No 35

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are a self-serve option for users to search and find answers to their questions. 

Use the search box above to type your question to search for an answer or browse existing FAQs by group, topic, etc.

Tell Me More

Link to Question Form

More assistance.

Submit a Question

Related FAQs

Home / Guides / Citation Guides / MLA Format / How to Cite Multiple Authors and Author Types in MLA

How to Cite Multiple Authors and Author Types in MLA

In this guide, you will learn how to format author names when creating an entry on a works cited page , according to guidelines in the 9th edition of the MLA Handbook (the Modern Language Association is not affiliated with this guide).

Real examples are included below to help you easily understand what to do with the various author situations you’ll find when citing sources.

Are you looking for author formatting in relation to in-text citations? Review the EasyBib MLA in-text citation guide.

What is an Author?

When creating a citation, the “author” is the individual credited with creating the source you are using. Usually, this is the individual(s) or organization who wrote the source. Sometimes, the “author” element could also be the work’s editor, translator, or performer ( MLA Handbook 107).

Here are general guidelines on formatting an author’s name:

  • The author’s name is always the first thing listed in a works cited entry, unless there is no author.
  • Entries on your works cited page should be listed in alphabetical order according to the author’s last name.
  • The first (or only) author’s name is listed as Last Name, First Name.

Crystal, David. The Story of English in 100 Words . St. Martin’s Press, 2013.

Hunter, David J., et al. “Covid-19 and the Stiff Upper Lip – The Pandemic Response in the United Kingdom: NEJM.” New England Journal of Medicine , 17 Mar. 2020, www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2005755.

The “Works Cited: A Quick Guide” page from the official Modern Language Association Style Center calls each element of a works cited entry a “core element.” These elements (e.g., author, title, publisher, etc.) are the most common facts listed for most sources. They are assembled in a set order, starting with the author.

How to Format Author Names in MLA 9

It’s important that you must first correctly cite the last name of the author(s) whose work you’re referencing. To correctly cite the author, always begin the citation with the author’s last name, a comma, and the rest of the name as it appears on the source. Place a period after the author’s name. If your source has more than two authors, you’ll also need to know when to use et al. in MLA . Below are examples for citing one or more authors.

How to Cite One Author

List the author’s last name, add a comma, then add the author’s first name or initials ( Handbook 111). Use the author’s name as it appears on the source.

Patterson, James.

Rowling, J.K.

King, Laurie R.

How to Cite Two Authors

Place the authors in the order in which they appear on the source ( Handbook 111). Note that only the lead author’s name is listed last name first; all additional authors are listed by their first name, middle initial if applicable, and then last name:

Shields, David, and Caleb Powell.

How to Cite Three or More Authors

List the first author’s last name, first name, and then middle initial if applicable. Follow it with a comma, and then add “et al.” in place of the additional authors’ names ( Handbook 112):

Beck, Isabel L., et al.

How to Cite Works by Individuals Other Than the Author

In cases where the person responsible for creating a work is someone other than the author, such as an editor, producer, performer, or artist, always include the individual’s role after the name ( Handbook 147):

Kansaker, Tej Ratna, and Mark Turin, editors.

When citing works of entertainment, such as film or television, include the name and role of the person on whom you’ve focused ( Handbook 147):

Byrne, Rose, performer.

*Note: If you are writing about a film or television show that does not focus on an individual’s role, omit the author’s name and start the citation with the title. Contributors can be listed separately following the title if necessary. 

How to Cite Translated Works

When your focus is on the translated text rather than the original, use the translator as the author ( Handbook 147). Include the name of the original creator after the title, preceded by the word “By”:

Rojas, Carlos, translator. The Four Books. By Yan Lianke.

How to Cite Using Pseudonyms in MLA 9

If an author has published a work under a different, lesser-known name, there are a few different ways you can list the author in your citation (Handbook 115-117). You can list the author only under their more well-known name; you can list the author’s more well-known name in square brackets; or you can use the author’s more well-known name in the author field, followed by a “ published by ” note and their pseudonym in square brackets.

King, Stephen.

[King, Stephen].

King, Stephen [ published as  Richard Bachman].

Alternatively, you can choose to use the author’s lesser-known name in the author field (be it their given name or a pseudonym), and include the author’s more well-known name in square brackets before the period.

Clemens, Samuel [Mark Twain].

Bachman, Richard [Stephen King].

Related guides:

  • Citing no authors or an organization author
  • In-text citations

citing two authors in mla

Notes on Titles and Suffixes

Some authors will also have additional information tied to their names. It could either be a title (e.g., Sir, Saint, President, etc.), a degree (e.g., MLIS, PhD, etc.), or a suffix (e.g., Jr., III, etc.).

According to the official Handbook, leave out titles and degrees from the works cited list (49).

For suffixes, include them. Add a comma after the full author’s name, then add the suffix. No comma is needed before the suffix if it is numerical.

  • King, Martin Luther, Jr.
  • Eaton, Maxwell III

Works Cited

MLA Handbook . 9th ed., Modern Language Association of America, 2021.

“Works Cited: A Quick Guide”. The MLA Style Center , Modern Language Association, 2020, style.mla.org/works-cited-a-quick-guide/. Accessed 26 Mar 2020.

“How Do I Cite A Source That Has No Author?” The MLA Style Center , Modern Language Association, 2017, style.mla.org/source-with-no-author/. Accessed 26 Mar 2020.

Published April 14, 2016. Updated May 18, 2021.

Written and edited by Michele Kirschenbaum and Elise Barbeau. Michele Kirschenbaum is a school library media specialist and the in-house librarian at EasyBib.com. Elise Barbeau is the Citation Specialist at Chegg. She has worked in digital marketing, libraries, and publishing.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

To cite a book in MLA style, you need to have basic information including the authors, publication year, book title, and publisher. The templates for in-text citations and works cited list entries for a book written by multiple authors, along with examples, are given below:

In-text citation template and example:

For citations in prose, use the first name and surname of the first author followed by “and others” or “and colleagues.” In subsequent citations, use only the surname of the first author followed by “and others” or “and colleagues.” In parenthetical citations, always use only the surname of the first author followed by “et al.”

Citation in prose:

First mention: Ludivine Allegue and colleagues . . . or Ludivine Allegue and others . . .

Subsequent occurrences: Allegue and colleagues . . . or Allegue and others . . .

Parenthetical:

. . . (Allegue et al.)

Works cited list entry template and example:

The title of the book is set in italics and title case.

Surname, F. M. Title of the Book . Publisher, Publication Date.

Allegue, Ludivine, et al., Practice-as-Research in Performance and Screen . Palgrave Macmillan, 2009.

Use only the first author’s name in surname–first name order in the entry, followed by “et al.”

To cite a book with multiple editors (or authors) in MLA style, you need to have basic information including the authors or the editors, publication year, book title, and publisher. The templates for in-text citations and works cited list entries of a book with multiple editors (or authors), along with examples, are given below:

For citations in prose, use the first name and surname of the first editor or the author followed by “and others” or “and colleagues.” In subsequent citations, use only the surname of the first editor or the author followed by “and others” or “and colleagues.” In parenthetical citations, always use only the surname of the first editor or the author followed by “et al.”

First mention: Annette Arlander and colleagues . . . or Annette Arlander and others . . .

Subsequent occurrences: Arlander and colleagues . . . or Arlander and others . . .

. . . ( Arlander et al.)

Works-cited-list entry template and example:

Arlander, Annette, et al., editors. Performance as Research: Knowledge, Methods, Impact . Routledge, 2017.

Use only the first editor’s or author’s name in surname–first name order in the entry, followed by “et al.” For a book with multiple editors, use the word “editors” after “et al.”

MLA Citation Examples

MLA Formatting

Writing Tools

Citation Generators

Other Citation Styles

Plagiarism Checker

Upload a paper to check for plagiarism against billions of sources and get advanced writing suggestions for clarity and style.

Get Started

  • 1-872-588-8263
  • [email protected]
  • Book A Demo
  • Post Your Project
  • Non-Fiction
  • Informative
  • Autobiography
  • Childrens Book
  • Book Writing
  • Business Book Writing
  • Book Publishing
  • Branding & Publicity
  • Video Book Trailers
  • Author Website
  • Audio Books
  • Customized Cover Design
  • SEO Blog Writing
  • White Paper Writing
  • Website copywriting
  • Content Development
  • Blog Management
  • Comic Book Writing
  • Hip Hop Ghostwriting
  • Horror Writing
  • Science Fiction Writing
  • Script Writing
  • Speech Writing
  • Song Writing
  • Childrens Book Editor
  • Comedy Writing
  • Content Creation

How to Cite Multiple Authors in MLA: A Complete Guide

  • August 16, 2023

Table of Contents:

Introduction, cite multiple authors: cite a book with two authors, cite multiple authors: cite a book with three or more authors., citing a book with an editor and author or authors..

  • Citing an article without the author's name at the end of the sentence.
  • Citing an article with one author's name at the end of the sentence:

Citing an article with two or more names at the end of the sentence:

For example:, multiple sources by the same author, in your in-text citation, online sources, essential elements and detailed insights, authors writing.

In this guide, the ghostwriting founder will walk you through how to Cite Multiple Authors in MLA format. First, we’ll look at a basic example of citing an article with multiple authors using the updated eighth-edition MLA guidelines, similar to the detailed steps found in our Complete Book Tropes List . Then we’ll dive into each step to Cite Multiple Authors in more detail.

You must include both names when you Cite Multiple Authors collectively around two authors. If the publisher has provided them, use their initials instead of their first and middle names. For example:

  • “Smith, Jane A.” (the name of one author)
  • “Smith and Jones” (the names of both authors)

Here is how you can Cite Multiple Authors collectively around three or more.

  • First, name the book, followed by a period.
  • Next, list all the authors’ names in order of their appearance on the title page, separated by commas. If no author is listed for this work, use “Anonymous” instead.
  • Reference page number(s) from your text where you found this information (you may also need to look at endnotes).

If you’re citing an e-book or digital copy of a print book, include that information in parentheses after each citation, much like the guidance provided in our E-book Distribution Strategies . and any other necessary details (i.e., “Online at…”). If you have multiple reference page numbers, separate them with commas.

When you Cite Multiple Authors and are citing a book with an editor and author or authors, you need to list the editor’s name first, followed by the author(s). If there are multiple editors, list them in alphabetical order. If there are multiple authors, list them in alphabetical order.

In this case, if your book has both an editor and an author who aren’t separate entities (like “Edited by Jane Smith”), put the editor’s name first:

  • “Edited by Jane Smith” or “Edited by Jane Smith and John Doe”. If you’re citing a book with an editor and author who aren’t separate entities, put the editor’s name first: “Jane Smith (editor)”.

Citing an article without the author’s name at the end of the sentence.

The author’s name is not in the sentence, so that you will use a parenthetical citation.

In this case, you should include only one author’s last name in your parenthetical citation and place it after the year of publication (or page number). The rest of your citations will be as follows:

  • Author’s Last Name
  • First Name.
  •  “Title of Article.
  • ” Title of Journal or Magazine Volume Number(Issue)
  • Page Numbers to be cited for the article

Citing an article with one author’s name at the end of the sentence:

Citing an article with one author’s name at the end of the sentence and another in parenthesis after the period.

  • The first author’s last name is “Author,” followed by their first name (if applicable).
  • You then write “and” before listing any other authors’ names. The second author’s last name should be written as it would normally appear on its line: without quotation marks or italics, followed by a comma.

For example, if two people wrote this paper together but had different last names– Smith and Jones–you would write: Author1andAuthor2.

When you Cite Multiple Authors, then The last name of the first author should be italicized, as discussed in our blog on How to Publish a Book . and the second author should not be. After a comma, write “et al.” to indicate more co-authors than just those listed above. If you’re citing a book with three or more authors, list them by last name in order of appearance on the cover page: Author1, Author2 and Author3

To cite an article with two or more authors, place the first author’s name in parentheses after a period and then add a comma.

The second author’s name should be followed by a period (if there is one).

If there is a third author, place their name in parentheses after the second author’s last name and add another comma before typing out their last name.

The same rules apply when citing multiple works by one author: place all names in parentheses after punctuating with periods as needed for each entry.

Smith, John (2009). “The Nature of the Thing.” In Q. Jones, Editor. The Philosophy of X. New York: Oxford University Press.

Sometimes, you might be using multiple sources written by the same author and don’t need to Cite Multiple Authors, which is a scenario we explore in our article about Bookstagram Hashtags . In such cases, you must distinguish between these sources in your in-text citations and Works Cited page. You can use a short title or a keyword from the source’s title to differentiate them.

Include the author’s last name and a shortened version of the title. For instance, if you’re citing two sources by John Anderson, “The Science of Stars” and “Exploring Planets,” your citations could look like this: (Anderson, “Stars” 15) and (Anderson, “Planets” 28).

In the Works Cited page, provide the full titles of the sources along with the rest of the publication details:

  • Anderson, John. “The Science of Stars.” Astronomy Today, vol. 14, no. 1, 2021, pp. 10-25.
  • “Exploring Planets.” Space Discoveries, vol. 5, no. 3, 2022, pp. 26-40.

In today’s digital age, you might use online sources such as websites, articles, autobiography writing services or blog posts. Citing these sources follows the same principles as citing printed materials. Just make sure to include the website’s name, the URL, and the date you accessed the information.

Here’s an example of citing an online article

Johnson, Emily, and Mark Davis. “Climate Change and Our Oceans.” Environmental Insights, www.environmentalinsights.org/climate-oceans, Accessed 8 August 2023.

Hopefully, you now better understand how to cite multiple authors in MLA. This can be a tricky process, but it’s not impossible! With these 10 steps and the tips we’ve given above, you should be able to easily Cite Multiple Authors.

Citing multiple authors in MLA style might seem tricky initially, but with practice and attention to detail, you’ll become a pro in no time. Remember to properly format your in-text citations, use “et al.” when there are three or more authors, and correctly arrange the authors’ names on your Works Cited page. Citing your sources not only strengthens your work but also contributes to the scholarly community, as we discuss in our piece on The Importance of Copyright and Intellectual Property. by acknowledging the contributions of others. So, as you embark on your research journey, keep these citation rules in mind to confidently navigate the world of academic writing, and for further guidance, our Book Editing Services can ensure your citations are flawless.

limited Time offer

50% off on all services, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recommended Blogs

Which colleen hoover book should i read first, romance novel book covers for your inspiration, most profitable books to sell on amazon, looking for help with your book writing journey discuss with us for detailed information on hiring professionals..

REDEEM YOUR COUPON: GWF50

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

Generate accurate MLA citations for free

  • Knowledge Base
  • How to cite a book in MLA

How to Cite a Book in MLA | Format & Examples

Published on June 28, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on January 17, 2024.

An MLA book citation always includes the author(s) , title (italicized), publisher, and publication year in the Works Cited entry. If relevant, also include the names of any editors or translators, the edition, and the volume. “University Press” should be abbreviated to “UP” in a Works Cited entry.

The in-text citation gives the author’s last name and a page number in parentheses.

Generate accurate MLA citations with Scribbr

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text.

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

upload-your-document-ai-proofreader

Table of contents

Citing a book chapter, editions of books, multi-volume books, translated books, e-books and online books, where to find information for a book citation, frequently asked questions about mla style.

Use this format if the book’s chapters are written by different authors, or if the book is a collection of self-contained works (such as stories , essays, poems or plays ). A similar format can be used to cite images from books or dictionary entries . If you cite several chapters from the same book, include a separate Works Cited entry for each one.

Start the Works Cited entry with the author and title of the chapter, followed by the book’s title, editor, publisher, and date , and end with the page range on which the chapter appears.

If there are two editors, give the full names of both. If there are more than two editors, follow the same rules as for citing multiple authors : name only the first editor followed by et al.

If you are citing a work from a book with no named editor (e.g. a collection of a single author’s poems or plays), use the same format, but leave out the editor element.

  • Multiple editors

Citing a whole collection or anthology

If you refer to a whole collection without citing a specific work within it, follow the standard book citation format. Include the editor(s) where the author would usually go, with a label to identify their role.

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

  • Academic style
  • Vague sentences
  • Style consistency

See an example

citing two authors in mla

If the book cover or title page specifies an edition, add the edition number or name, followed by the abbreviation “ed.”, after the title. Note that versions of the Bible are treated slightly differently.

Including the original publication date

Classic books are often published and republished many times. If the original publication date is relevant or necessary to put the source in context, you can also include this directly after the title.

If you cite only one volume of a multi-volume work, include the volume number in the Works Cited entry.

If you cite more than one volume of the book, cite them as a single work and specify the total number of volumes in your Works Cited entry. In this case, the in-text citations must include the volume number as well as the page number.

  • Citing a single volume
  • Citing multiple volumes

If the book is translated, include the translator’s name after the title.

How should academia deal with AI writing platforms? Free webinar

AI is transforming academia. In collaboration with QuillBot, we’ll explore how appropriate use of AI can help you achieve higher levels of success.

  • The AI revolution for academic success
  • Learn with industry experts and ask your questions
  • Using AI to enhance writing, not replace it

Sign up for this session

February 29th, 10AM CST

citing two authors in mla

The citation format for an e-book depends on how you accessed it.

Books accessed online

If you accessed the book via a website or database, use the standard MLA book citation format, followed by the name of the website or database and a link to the book. Look for a DOI, stable URL or permalink. If the book was accessed as a PDF, you may note this in your reference .

Downloaded e-books

If you downloaded the book onto an e-reader device or app, you only have to add “E-book ed.” after the title.

If the e-book does not have page numbers, use an alternate locator, such as a chapter or section heading, in your in-text citation. Do not use locators that are specific to the device (e.g. Kindle locations).

The title, author, publisher, and publication year are usually found on the book’s title page. You might have to check the copyright page for the publisher and publication year.

Note that the copyright date is not always the same as the publication date. If several different years appear on the copyright page, use the most recent one.

If the book has any editors or translators named on the cover page, include them in the citation after the book’s title.

mla-book-citation

In MLA style , book titles appear in italics, with all major words capitalized. If there is a subtitle, separate it from the main title with a colon and a space (even if no colon appears in the source). For example:

The format is the same in the Works Cited list and in the text itself. However, when you mention the book title in the text, you don’t have to include the subtitle.

The title of a part of a book—such as a chapter, or a short story or poem in a collection—is not italicized, but instead placed in quotation marks.

If a source has two authors, name both authors in your MLA in-text citation and Works Cited entry. If there are three or more authors, name only the first author, followed by et al.

In MLA Style , you should cite a specific chapter or work within a book in two situations:

  • When each of the book’s chapters is written by a different author.
  • When the book is a collection of self-contained works (such as poems , plays , or short stories ), even if they are all written by the same author.

If you cite multiple chapters or works from the same book, include a separate Works Cited entry for each chapter.

Some source types, such as books and journal articles , may contain footnotes (or endnotes) with additional information. The following rules apply when citing information from a note in an MLA in-text citation :

  • To cite information from a single numbered note, write “n” after the page number, and then write the note number, e.g. (Smith 105n2)
  • To cite information from multiple numbered notes, write “nn” and include a range, e.g. (Smith 77nn1–2)
  • To cite information from an unnumbered note, write “un” after the page number, with a space in between, e.g. (Jones 250 un)

You must include an MLA in-text citation every time you quote or paraphrase from a source (e.g. a book , movie , website , or article ).

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

McCombes, S. (2024, January 17). How to Cite a Book in MLA | Format & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved February 27, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/mla/book-citation/

Is this article helpful?

Shona McCombes

Shona McCombes

Other students also liked, a complete guide to mla in-text citations, how to format your mla works cited page, how to cite a play in mla, what is your plagiarism score.

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

MLA Formatting and Style Guide

OWL logo

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

In-Text Citations

Resources on using in-text citations in MLA style

Works Cited Page

Resources on writing an MLA style works cited page, including citation formats

Other MLA Resources

citing two authors in mla

How To Cite Two Authors MLA

This is one of the most asked questions – How to cite two authors MLA? Properly citing sources is crucial for academic integrity and avoiding plagiarism. When dealing with texts by two authors, MLA style requires specific formatting to ensure clarity and accuracy in your reference list. This article will guide you through the process of citing two authors in MLA style, offering clear instructions and helpful examples.

Step 1: Invert the First Author’s Name

Start by listing the last name of the first author, followed by a comma, then their first name. Next, add a comma and space before including the second author’s name in normal order (first name followed by last name).

Smith, John, and Jane Doe.

Step 2: Include the Title and Publication Information

After the authors’ names, italicize the title of the work you’re referencing. For books, this includes the title of the book. For articles, it includes the title of the article and the name of the journal in which it was published. Finally, conclude with the publication information, including the publisher and year of publication.

  • Book: Smith, John, and Jane Doe. The History of the World . Penguin Books, 2023.
  • Article: Smith, John, and Jane Doe. “The Impact of Climate Change.” Journal of Environmental Science , vol. 10, no. 2, 2023, pp. 1-10.

Step 3: Parenthetical Citations (In-Text)

When mentioning the source within your writing, use the following format:

  • (Smith & Doe, 2023)

Include the first author’s last name and the phrase “et al.” if the work has more than two authors.

  • (Smith et al., 2023)

Additional Tips:

  • Ensure consistency throughout your paper. Apply the same formatting for all citations involving two authors.
  • Consult the latest edition of the MLA Handbook for Writers for comprehensive guidelines and specific examples.
  • Online resources like Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab (OWL) offer valuable assistance with MLA formatting and citation.

Remember, clear and accurate citations demonstrate your academic integrity and add credibility to your work. By following these simple steps and utilizing helpful resources, you can confidently cite sources with two authors in MLA style.

Katrina Kaif launched Yasmin Karachiwala’s New Book – The Perfect 10  

The Magic of Imaginary Authors

Why is Shiva called Pashupati?

Personal Diary First Page Ideas

Why You Should Start Keeping a Personal Diary

Diverse Selection of Books at WHSmith, Delhi Airport

How do I cite one person’s testimony in a congressional hearing?

Your source for congressional testimony may be a transcript, audio recording, or video recording of all or part of a hearing. Style each source using the MLA format template . Note that, depending on your source, the person whose testimony you are citing may or may not be listed in the Author element of your entry.

Hearing Transcript Miriam Nisbet, director of the Office of Government Information Services, testified to a “strong interest in updating regulations” to use “plainer” language (United States, Senate 11). Work Cited United States, Senate, Committee on the Judiciary. We the People: Fulfilling the Promise of Open Government Five Years after the Open Government Act . U.S. Government Printing Office, 2013, www.judiciary.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/CHRG-113shrg90863.pdf. 113th Congress, 1st session, 90-863 PDF.
Transcript of One Person’s Testimony The general counsel for the Associated Press testified in favor of the proposed portal for FOIA requests (Kaiser 7).  Work Cited Kaiser, Karen. Testimony of Karen Kaiser, General Counsel, the Associated Press, on behalf of the Sunshine in Government Initiative before the Committee on the Judiciary United States Senate on “Ensuring an Informed Citizenry: Examining the Administration’s Efforts to Improve Open Government.” 6 May 2015, www.judiciary.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/05-06-15%20Kaiser%20Testimony.pdf.
Video Excerpt Jeanne H. Schmedlen’s testimony about federal partnerships with state humanities councils highlighted the activities of Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Speakers Bureau (“NEA Hearing” 02:30–03:45). Work Cited “NEA Hearing: Jeanne H. Schmedlen.” YouTube , uploaded by Committee on Education and the Workforce Democrats, 9 May 2008, www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBV_NuQMfgM.

For further guidance on citing government sources, see the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook .

COMMENTS

  1. MLA In-Text Citations: The Basics

    MLA format follows the author-page method of in-text citation. This means that the author's last name and the page number (s) from which the quotation or paraphrase is taken must appear in the text, and a complete reference should appear on your Works Cited page.

  2. How do I cite a source with multiple authors in MLA?

    If a source has two authors, name both authors in your MLA in-text citation and Works Cited entry. If there are three or more authors, name only the first author, followed by et al. Frequently asked questions: MLA Style When should I use footnotes in MLA style? Should I use footnotes to cite sources in MLA style?

  3. Author Names in MLA

    In MLA style, up to two authors are included in a citation. For sources with more than two authors, the citation is shortened with " et al. " In the Works Cited list, the first author's name is inverted (surname followed by first name). In an MLA in-text citation, only surnames are included.

  4. MLA In-text Citations

    An MLA in-text citation provides the author's last name and a page number in parentheses. If a source has two authors, name both. If a source has more than two authors, name only the first author, followed by " et al. " If the part you're citing spans multiple pages, include the full page range.

  5. MLA citation for multiple authors

    MLA citation for multiple authors Published October 22, 2020. Updated November 23, 2021. MLA style references sources in two ways: in-text citations and works cited citations. Let'squickly delve into both of these and the differences between them.

  6. How to Cite Multiple Authors in MLA

    2. Provide the second author's name in first name-last name format. After the first author's name, type the word "and" followed by the second author's name. Reverse the order from the first author, typing their first name followed by their last name. Place a period at the end of the second author's name.

  7. Two Authors

    Citation & Documentation » MLA Style » MLA In-Text Citations » Two Authors Two Authors 9th Edition 8th Edition If your source has two authors, separate their last names with the word "and." The authors' names should be listed in the order they appear in the published work. Example:

  8. Books

    When a work has two authors, include them in the order they appear on the work, and invert the first author's name but write out the second author's name normally. Works Cited Format: First Author's Last Name, First Name, and Second Author's First Name Last Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Year. Example: Hawkins, Stan, and Sarah Niblock.

  9. MLA in-text citations with multiple authors

    Two authors in-text citation in MLA To format an in-text citation of a source with two authors, include the authors' last names separated by the word and, and the page number or page range in parentheses. For example: (King and Straub 93-101)

  10. LibGuides: MLA 9th Edition Citation Guide: Multiple Authors

    ... (Champaneria and Patel 137). Three or More Authors Works Cited Page Format: Author's Last Name, Author's First Name, et al. Format the remainder according to resource type. Works Cited Page Format: Lin, Eugenia, et al. "Imposter Syndrome Among Surgeons Is Associated With Intolerance of Uncertainty and Lower Confidence in Problem Solving."

  11. In-Text Citations: An Overview

    In-Text Citations: An Overview. by Modern Language Association. In-text citations are brief, unobtrusive references that direct readers to the works-cited-list entries for the sources you consulted and, where relevant, to the location in the source being cited. An in-text citation begins with the shortest piece of information that di­rects ...

  12. Articles

    When a work has two authors, include them in the order they appear on the work, and invert the first author's name but write out the second author's name normally. Works Cited Format (2 authors, scholarly journal): First Author's Last Name, First Name, and Second Author's First Name Last Name. "Capitalized Title of Article."

  13. MLA 9 Citation Style: Two Authors

    MLA Citation -- Book with Two Authors Works Cited Format Last name of first author, First name of first author, and First and Last name of second author. Title of Book. Edition (if any), Publisher, Date. In-Text Citation Format (Author's Last Name p. #*)

  14. MLA Citation Style, 9th Edition: Multiple Authors or Editors

    Works Cited: Dobson, Kit, and Smaro Kamboureli. Producing Canadian Literature: Authors Speak on the Literary Marketplace. Wilfrid Laurier UP, 2012.

  15. How to Cite Multiple Authors in MLA: A Complete Guide?

    Citing Two Authors in MLA Format. When dealing with a work written by two authors, citing both names in your in-text citation is essential. Here is how you do it: According to Smith and Johnson (45), … In the Works Cited page, the citation will look like this: Smith, John, and Emily Johnson. Title. of the Book. Publisher, Year. Citing Three ...

  16. How do I cite a source with multiple authors in MLA Style (in-text

    MLA Style requires an in-text citation to indicate the sources that were consulted and used in your work. The in-text citation must correspond with the entry on the Works Cited page, MLA in-text citations follow the Author-Page style, meaning the author's last name and the page number(s) of the quotation or paraphrase must appear in the text.

  17. Learn How to Format an Author's Name in MLA

    To correctly cite the author, always begin the citation with the author's last name, a comma, and the rest of the name as it appears on the source. Place a period after the author's name. If your source has more than two authors, you'll also need to know when to use et al. in MLA. Below are examples for citing one or more authors.

  18. How to Cite Multiple Authors in MLA: A Complete Guide

    Step. Details. Additional Notes. Cite a Book With Two Authors. Include both names, use initials if provided. For example: "Smith, Jane A." and "Smith and Jones". Cite a Book With Three or More Authors. List all authors in order, use "Anonymous" if no author listed. Include page numbers, e-book details if applicable.

  19. How do I cite multiple works by the same author from the same

    Samson Agonistes. Donaldson et al., pp. 1540-83. If you are citing multiple works by the same author and using a single collection of that author's works—edited or not—then you may generally cite the collection as a whole in your works-cited list and refer to the individual works in your text: Whereas in Areopagitica Milton praises those ...

  20. How to Cite a Book in MLA

    Start the Works Cited entry with the author and title of the chapter, followed by the book's title, editor, publisher, and date, and end with the page range on which the chapter appears. If there are two editors, give the full names of both.

  21. MLA Formatting and Style Guide

    Overview of how to create MLA in-text citations and reference lists In-Text Citations. Resources on using in-text citations in MLA style. ... Resources on writing an MLA style works cited page, including citation formats. Basic Format Basic guidelines for formatting the works cited page at the end of an MLA style paper Books Periodicals

  22. How To Cite Two Authors MLA

    When dealing with texts by two authors, MLA style requires specific formatting to ensure clarity and accuracy in your reference list. This article will guide you through the process of citing two authors in MLA style, offering clear instructions and helpful examples. Step 1: Invert the First Author's Name. Start by listing the last name of ...

  23. How do I cite one person's testimony in a congressional hearing?

    Your source for congressional testimony may be a transcript, audio recording, or video recording of all or part of a hearing. Style each source using the MLA format template.Note that, depending on your source, the person whose testimony you are citing may or may not be listed in the Author element of your entry.