How to Cite an Interview in MLA
Citing an interview in MLA format is an essential skill for students and researchers, as it helps to give proper credit to the source of the information and avoid plagiarism. MLA style, developed by the Modern Language Association, provides guidelines for formatting academic papers and citing sources. In this article, we will discuss the proper way to cite an interview in MLA format, including both in-text citations and Works Cited entries.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the specifics of how to cite an interview in MLA, it is important to understand the basic components of a citation. When citing an interview, you will need to include the following information:
1. The name of the interviewee (if known)
2. The name of the interviewer (if known)
3. The title of the interview (if available)
4. The publication date (if available)
5. The medium of the interview (e.g., print, broadcast, online)
In-Text Citations
In MLA, in-text citations are used to indicate the source of a quote or paraphrase within your paper. When citing an interview in-text, follow these guidelines:
1. If the name of the interviewee is known, include it in the in-text citation, followed by the page number (if applicable). For example: (Smith 3).
2. If the name of the interviewee is not known, use the interviewer’s name instead. For example: (Smith 3).
3. If neither the interviewee nor the interviewer’s name is available, use the title of the interview. For example: (“Interview with Jane Doe” 3).
Works Cited Entries
In the Works Cited section of your MLA paper, you will need to provide a complete citation for the interview. Follow these guidelines:
1. Start with the name of the interviewee, followed by the interviewer’s name (if known). For example: Smith, John, and Jane Doe.
2. Next, include the title of the interview, using quotation marks if it is a work of fiction or a non-standard title. For example: “Interview with Jane Doe.”
3. Provide the publication date, if available, followed by the medium of the interview. For example: (2019) or (Online).
4. If the interview was published in a print or online journal, include the title of the journal, issue number, and page numbers. For example: “Interview with Jane Doe” 5 (2019): 3-7.
Here is an example of a complete Works Cited entry for an interview:
Smith, John, and Jane Doe. “Interview with Jane Doe.” 5 (2019): 3-7.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you properly cite an interview in MLA format. This will help you maintain academic integrity and provide your readers with the necessary information to locate the source of your information.
