Basic Format
* Author(s). "Title of Article." *Title of Database*, *Volume Number* (Issue Number), year, pages. *Database Name*, doi: [insert DOI number].
Example:
Smith, John. "The Impact of Social Media on Political Campaigns." *JSTOR*, *10* (2), 2022, 15-28. *JSTOR*, doi: 10.1177/15427867211039564.
Key Components Explained
1. Author(s): List the author(s) in the order they appear in the article. If there are more than three authors, list the first three followed by "et al."
2. "Title of Article": Put the title in quotation marks.
3. *Title of Database*: Italicize the name of the database.
4. *Volume Number* (Issue Number): If applicable, include the volume and issue number.
5. Year: Include the year the article was published.
6. Pages: Specify the page range of the article.
7. *Database Name*: Include the name of the database where you accessed the article.
8. doi: If the article has a DOI (Digital Object Identifier), include it after "doi:". This unique code helps readers find the article online.
Important Notes
* URL (Web Address): You generally do not include the full URL in MLA style, but it might be useful to include it as a separate note after the citation if you need to provide a direct link.
* Retrieval Date: If you're citing a source that doesn't have a DOI and whose content might change over time, you can include the retrieval date in parentheses at the end of your citation.
* Example: (accessed 15 January 2023).
* Check for Variations: Always double-check the specific citation guidelines provided by your institution or instructor, as they might have slightly different preferences.
Example with Retrieval Date:
* Author(s). "Title of Article." *Title of Database*, *Volume Number* (Issue Number), year, pages. *Database Name*, (accessed 15 January 2023).
Online Databases with Specific Citation Rules
* ProQuest: ProQuest has its own specific guidelines for citations. Check their website for their recommended format.
* EBSCOhost: EBSCOhost offers citation tools within its platform to help users create accurate citations.
Online Citation Generators
You can also use online citation generators, like EasyBib or Zotero, to help you format citations correctly. However, always double-check the generated citations to ensure accuracy.
Example of a Complete Citation:
Miller, Susan. "The Role of Empathy in Conflict Resolution." *ProQuest*, *10* (1), 2021, 45-58. *ProQuest Central*, doi: 10.1007/s12144-020-00997-x.