Citing a dissertation in MLA format can be a daunting task, but it is an essential part of academic writing. Whether you are a student or a researcher, properly citing your sources is critical to maintaining the integrity of your work, and avoiding plagiarism. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to cite a dissertation in MLA format.
1. Understanding the Basics of MLA Format
Before we dive into the specifics of how to cite a dissertation in MLA format, it is important to understand the basics of MLA format. MLA stands for Modern Language Association, and it is a widely used style guide for academic writing in the humanities. MLA format includes guidelines for formatting your paper, as well as guidelines for citing sources.
2. Citing a Dissertation in MLA Format
When citing a dissertation in MLA format, the basic format is as follows:Author’s Last Name, First Name. Title of Dissertation. University, Year.
For example:Smith, John. The Effects of Climate Change on Agriculture. University of California, Los Angeles,2019.
3. Citing a Published Dissertation
If the dissertation you are citing has been published, you can cite it as you would any other book. The basic format is as follows:Author’s Last Name, First Name. Title of Dissertation. Publisher, Year.
For example:Smith, John. The Effects of Climate Change on Agriculture. Oxford University Press,2020.
4. Citing an Unpublished Dissertation
If the dissertation you are citing has not been published, you can cite it as an unpublished manuscript. The basic format is as follows:Author’s Last Name, First Name. Title of Dissertation. Manuscript, Year.
For example:Smith, John. The Effects of Climate Change on Agriculture. Manuscript,2019.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to include the name of the advisor in my citation?
A: No, you do not need to include the name of the advisor in your citation.
Q: How do I cite a dissertation that is in a foreign language?
A: If the dissertation is in a foreign language, you should include the title of the dissertation in the original language, followed by a translation in brackets.
Q: How do I cite a dissertation that I accessed online?
A: If you accessed the dissertation online, you should include the URL or DOI in your citation.
Q: Do I need to include the page numbers in my citation?
A: No, you do not need to include the page numbers in your citation.
Q: How do I cite a dissertation that was published by a university press?
A: If the dissertation was published by a university press, you should cite it as you would any other book published by that press.
6. Conclusion
Citing a dissertation in MLA format may seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, it is a straightforward process. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and complete, and that your work is properly attributed. Remember, proper citation is essential to maintaining the integrity of your work, and avoiding plagiarism.
