How to Properly Cite Multiple Authors in MLA: Essential Guide for 2025

Citing your sources properly is crucial in academic writing not only to give credit to the original authors but also to maintain the integrity of your research. In this essential guide, we will explore how to cite multiple authors using the MLA citation format. We will break down the rules step-by-step, providing practical examples that align with the latest MLA guidelines. Whether you’re working on a research paper, a thesis, or simply looking to enhance your writing references, understanding how to navigate multiple authors citation can save you time and ensure accuracy in your works cited list.

Citing Two Authors

When your source has two authors, the format for citing in both in-text citations and the works cited page is straightforward. According to MLA rules, you should list both authors’ last names in the same order as they appear in the source. For example, if you’re citing a book authored by John Smith and Jane Doe, your in-text citation would be formatted as follows:

In-Text Citation Examples

For your parenthetical citation, include both author names separated by “and”: (Smith and Doe 45). This method ensures that both authors receive credit for their contributions. On the works cited page, your entry should be structured with the first author’s last name followed by their first, and the second author’s name reversed:

Smith, John, and Jane Doe. Title of the Book. Publisher, Year.

Formatting Guidelines

When creating your works cited page, be sure to follow the MLA citation format guidelines. This includes using a hanging indent for each citation and ensuring that the citation is double-spaced. Proper formatting not only organizes your sources but also strengthens your citation integrity. Remember, a well-formatted works cited list bolsters the authority of your sources.

Citing Three or More Authors

When dealing with sources that have three or more authors, the MLA guidelines for citations simplify the citation process. In both in-text and full citations, you only need to list the first author followed by the phrase “et al.” which stands for “and others.” This practice is especially helpful when managing a lengthy list of author names.

In-Text Citation for Multiple Authors

For example, if your book was authored by Alice Johnson, Mark Richards, and Peter Lee, your in-text citation would look like this: (Johnson et al. 78). This method keeps your writing concise while still crediting the authors involved. Remember to always check the specific contributions of each author and list them accordingly where their contributions are relevant.

Works Cited Entry for Multiple Authors

On your works cited page, the format will look like this:

Johnson, Alice, et al. Title of the Work. Publisher, Year.

By following these structures, you ensure clarity and adherence to essential citation rules when citing multiple authors correctly.

Citing Edited Volumes and Anthologies

Citing edited volumes or anthologies requires a slight adjustment in the format while still honoring the author and editor contributions. For a book edited by multiple authors, you adjust how you present the author names and the editor in your citations.

Works Cited Format for Edited Books

If you’re citing a work edited by a single editor or multiple editors, you’ll start with the editor’s name. For a book edited by Robert Brown and Lisa White, your works cited entry would look something like this:

Brown, Robert, and Lisa White, editors. Title of the Anthology. Publisher, Year.

In-Text Citation for Edited Volumes

In your in-text citations, mention the editors as you do with authors, using “edited by” if needed. Example:

(Brown and White 24) or (Brown et al. 45) for multiple editors. Citing edited volumes properly demonstrates your awareness of the various contributions made within scholarly work, maintaining transparency with your readers.

Addressing Citing Multiple Authors Online

In our digital age, many academic resources are available online, and as such, programmers and researchers face unique challenges when following MLA citation standards. Citing websites follows similar rules to other sources but involves adding digital access dates and URLs.

Online Sources with Multiple Authors

If you reference a webpage authored by three writers, you would create a citation similar to the following:

Smith, John, Jane Doe, and Alex Jones. “Title of the Article.” Name of Website, Date of Publication, URL.

Investigating the Authority of Sources

Understanding how to effectively cite sources online also includes knowing the credibility and authority of your sources. Prioritize reputable websites and remember that proper citation also helps to prevent plagiarism. If you are unsure about the authority of your sources, consider exploring tools or references that assess the reliability of digital content.

Key Takeaways

• For two authors, list both names in your citations.
• Use “et al.” for references with three or more authors.
• Follow MLA formatting guidelines, including hanging indents and double-spacing.
• Be sure to adjust formats for edited volumes or online sources correctly.
• Always prioritize the authority of your sources to uphold academic integrity.

FAQ

1. What are the main rules for citing sources with multiple authors in MLA?

MLA guidelines dictate that you should cite two authors with both names listed, and for three or more authors, you would list the first author’s name followed by “et al.” In-text citations reflect this by shortening the list while still providing credit to all authors mentioned.

2. How do I format the citation for an edited book in MLA style?

To cite an edited book, include the names of the editors in your works cited list, followed by the phrase “editors.” For example, “Foster, Anne, and Jake Mason, editors. Title of the Book. Publisher, Year.”

3. Are there special considerations for citing digital sources?

Yes, when citing digital sources in MLA format, you must include the publication date and a URL. Ensure that the sources are scholarly and reliable to maintain academic integrity.

4. How can I improve my citation skills?

Utilizing citation management tools can enhance your efficiency when citing sources. Many online citation generators follow MLA guidelines and can help you format your citations accurately. It’s also advisable to refer to the latest MLA Handbook for up-to-date rules.

5. What should I do if I’m unsure how to cite a specific source?

If you’re uncertain about how to cite a particular source, consult the MLA Handbook or use educational resources online dedicated to citation guidelines. Many universities also offer writing centers that can provide assistance.