Understanding the MLA Citation Format
MLA (Modern Language Association) is one of the prominent citation styles utilized in academic writing. This format is common in humanities and arts professions, where scholars frequently rely on speeches and lectures as sources. In this article, we will delve into how to cite a speech or a lecture using the MLA format.
How to cite a speech
Citing a speech using the MLA style is critical for academic work. Let’s explore how to cite a speech in MLA format through a detailed step-by-step guide.
- Start by mentioning the speaker’s name in the format – last name, first name.
- Then, mention the title of the speech (if available). If not, simply use a concise description of the speech.
- Follow this with the name of the event and its location, the date, and the type of the speech.
For example: King, Martin Luther Jr. “I Have a Dream.” March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Lincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C. 28 Aug. 1963, Speech.
How to quote a speech
Whenever you quote a speech in the MLA format, remember to cite it properly to avoid plagiarism. The steps are similar to citing a speech, but here the quoted content is enclosed within quotation marks.
For example:
Example: According to Martin Luther King Jr., I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.’ (King)
Citing Lectures in MLA Format
If you are wondering how to cite a lecture in MLA, this section will help you. MLA structure for citing lectures is similar to citing speeches. Include the speakers name, the title of the lecture, the course name, the institution’s name where the lecture took place, and the date. If the lecture is accessed online, then remember to include the website name, the URL, and the date you accessed the resource.
For example: Smith, John. “Understanding Artificial Intelligence.” AI Course, Stanford University, 10 February 2022, Lecture.
MLA In-text Citation for a Lecture
We will now illustrate in-text citation for lectures in MLA. As per MLA rules, in-text citations include the author’s last name and brackets around the page number, if applicable. If you are citing a lecture, the page number is replaced by the abbreviation ‘par.’ followed by the paragraph number if available or a section of the lecture. For live lectures without a paragraph number, only the lecturer’s last name would suffice.
For example: (Smith, par. 10) or (Smith) for a live lecture.
Mastering the MLA style for speeches and lectures can enhance your academic work’s authenticity and credibility. Always remember to maintain the citation sequence diligently to avoid any plagiarism issues.
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