Citing Sources in MLA Style: A Guide for Animal-Related Research
The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is widely used in the humanities, including animal studies. Accurately citing sources in MLA format is crucial for academic integrity and avoids plagiarism. This guide will walk you through the process of citing various sources commonly used in animal-related research. We'll cover books, articles, websites, and other media, providing clear examples to help you accurately cite your work.
How to Cite Books in MLA Style (Animal-Related)
The basic format for citing a book in MLA style is:
Author's Last Name, Author's First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Publication Year.
Example:
Haraway, Donna J. When Species Meet. University of Minnesota Press, 2008.
How to Cite Journal Articles in MLA Style (Animal-Related)
Citing journal articles requires more information than books, including the journal title, volume, issue, and page numbers. The basic format is:
Author's Last Name, Author's First Name. "Title of Article." Title of Journal, Volume Number, Issue Number (Year): Page Numbers. Database Name, DOI or URL.
Example:
Bekoff, Marc. "Animal Emotions: Exploring Passionate Minds." Behavioral Processes, vol. 153, no. 1, 2018, pp. 11-18. ScienceDirect, doi:10.1016/j.beproc.2018.05.001.
(Note: Always try to use the DOI (Digital Object Identifier) if available. If not, use the URL.)
How to Cite Websites in MLA Style (Animal-Related)
For websites, you need the author (if known), the title of the page, the website name, the publisher (if different from the website name), the publication date (or last updated date), and the URL.
Example:
"Animal Welfare." The Humane Society of the United States, www.humanesociety.org/animal-welfare. Accessed 15 Oct. 2023.
How to Cite Other Sources (e.g., Films, Interviews, etc.)
MLA style accommodates a wide variety of sources. Here are some additional examples:
Film:
Attenborough, David, director. Planet Earth. BBC, 2006.
Interview:
Smith, Jane. Personal interview. 10 Oct. 2023.
Image:
Name of Artist or Photographer. Title of Work. Date of Creation, Medium. Location of Work.
What if I Can't Find the Information I Need?
If you're having trouble finding all the necessary information for a citation, prioritize what you can find and include it. If there is no author listed, start with the title of the work. If there is no publication date, use "n.d." (no date). Always strive for accuracy with what is available.
Using a Citation Management Tool
For more complex research projects, consider using a citation management tool like Zotero or Mendeley. These tools help you organize your sources and automatically generate citations in MLA format. They can save a substantial amount of time and effort.
Importance of Accurate Citations
Accurate citation is essential. It allows readers to easily locate your sources and verify your information. In academic settings, proper citation prevents plagiarism, a serious academic offense. Always double-check your citations before submitting any work.
This guide provides a solid foundation for citing sources related to animals in MLA style. Remember to always consult the most up-to-date MLA Handbook for the most comprehensive and precise guidance. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the accuracy and credibility of your research.
