Personal interview MLA citation is an essential aspect of academic writing, especially when researchers gather qualitative data through interviews. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to format personal interview citations in MLA style. By understanding the correct format, researchers can ensure that their work is academically credible and properly acknowledges the sources of their data.
Personal interviews are a valuable source of information, allowing researchers to gain insights into individuals’ perspectives, experiences, and opinions. However, to maintain the integrity of the research process, it is crucial to properly cite these interviews in accordance with the MLA citation guidelines. The MLA style is widely used in the humanities and social sciences, and it provides specific instructions for citing personal interviews.
When citing a personal interview in MLA style, the basic format is as follows:
Name of Interviewee. Personal Interview. Date of Interview.
For example:
Smith, John. Personal Interview. 15 May 2021.
This format includes the name of the interviewee, followed by the term “Personal Interview,” and then the date of the interview. It is important to note that the interviewee’s name should be inverted (surname followed by given name) to maintain consistency with MLA guidelines.
If the interviewee’s name is not known, the citation should begin with the term “Anonymity Requested” or “Anonymous.” For example:
Anonymity Requested. Personal Interview. 10 June 2021.
In some cases, the interviewee may prefer to remain anonymous for various reasons. In such instances, it is essential to respect their wishes and use the appropriate citation format.
In addition to the basic format, there are specific guidelines for citing personal interviews within the text of your paper. When incorporating a direct quote from the interview, you should include the interviewee’s name and the date of the interview in parentheses after the quote. For example:
(Smith, 15 May 2021)
If you are paraphrasing the interviewee’s statement, you should still include the interviewee’s name and the date of the interview in parentheses after the paraphrase. For example:
According to Smith, “The current political climate is highly polarized” (15 May 2021).
It is important to note that personal interviews should not be cited in the Works Cited list, as they are not considered published works. However, it is essential to keep a record of the interviews for your own reference and to ensure proper citation in your paper.
In conclusion, personal interview MLA citation is a critical aspect of academic writing, particularly when researchers rely on qualitative data gathered through interviews. By following the MLA citation guidelines, researchers can maintain the integrity of their work and properly acknowledge the sources of their data. Understanding the proper format for personal interview citations will help ensure that your research is credible and academically sound.
