What is the correct MLA in-text citation format for a book?

The basic MLA in-text citation for a book includes the author's last name and the page number(s). If you're using a direct quote, the page number is essential. If you're paraphrasing or summarizing, the page number is still recommended, but some instructors may not require it if the information is general knowledge or easily found within the text.

Example:

* With a direct quote: "Here's a direct quote from the book" (Smith 123).

* Paraphrasing or summarizing: Smith argues that... (123).

If there is no author:

Use the title (or a shortened version of the title if it's very long) in place of the author's last name. Put the title in quotation marks if it's a shorter work (like an article or essay within a book). Italicize the title if it's a longer work (like a book).

Example:

* With a direct quote, no author: "Here's a quote" ("Title of Book" 42).

* Paraphrasing, no author: The book *Title of Book* argues that... (42).

For multiple authors:

* Two authors: (Smith and Jones 123)

* Three or more authors: (Smith et al. 123) ("et al." is an abbreviation for "and others")

For different editions:

If you are using a different edition than the one listed in your Works Cited, include the edition number after the page number.

Example:

(Smith 123, 2nd ed.)

Important Note: The in-text citation *must* correspond to an entry in your Works Cited page at the end of your paper. The Works Cited entry provides the full bibliographic information for the source.