Correct MLA Formatting for a Book Citation

What is the correct MLA capitalization, punctuation, and formatting rules for a book citation?

The correct MLA capitalization, punctuation, and formatting rules for a book citation involve the following elements:
  • Author's last name followed by the first name separated by a comma
  • Title of the book in title case (capitalizing all major words) followed by a period
  • City of publication, followed by a colon, then the name of the publisher
  • Comma after the name of the publisher, followed by the year of publication
  • Publication year should be followed by a period
The citation that uses the correct MLA capitalization, punctuation, and formatting rules for a book is: c. Alvarez, Julia. In the Time of Butterflies. San Francisco: California Press, 2005.

Elements of Correct MLA Formatting for a Book Citation

When creating a book citation for MLA formatting, it is essential to follow specific rules to ensure the accuracy and professionalism of the citation. The first element to consider is the author's name placement. The author's last name should come first, followed by a comma, and then the author's first name. This format helps in identifying the author and distinguishing between multiple works by the same author.

The title of the book is another critical element in the citation. It should be written in title case, meaning all major words are capitalized. The title should be followed by a period to indicate the end of the title element in the citation.

After the title, the next element is the city of publication. The city should be followed by a colon, indicating a separation between the city and the name of the publisher. The publisher's name comes after the colon and should be followed by a comma.

Finally, the last element in the citation is the year of publication. The publication year is crucial for identifying the specific edition of the book and its relevance in academic or research contexts. The year should be followed by a period to signify the completion of the citation.

By following these formatting rules and guidelines, you can ensure that your book citation adheres to the correct MLA capitalization, punctuation, and formatting standards.

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