GED Reasoning Through Language ArtsLanguage Conventions and UsageMedium
A student is writing a research paper and needs to properly cite a source with an author and page number using MLA format. Which sentence demonstrates correct MLA parenthetical citation?
- AImpact on educational access is evident (Smith, page 45).
- BAccording to one study, "The digital divide continues to impact educational access" (Smith, 45).
- CThe digital divide continues to impact educational access (Smith 45).
- DOne study states that "The digital divide continues to impact educational access" (Smith p. 45).
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The digital divide continues to impact educational access (Smith 45).
Option C correctly uses MLA parenthetical citation by placing the author's last name and the page number in parentheses, with no comma between them, and the period after the closing parenthesis. The other options contain errors in punctuation or formatting.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This option incorrectly uses 'page' before the page number and includes a comma.
- B. This option incorrectly includes a comma between the author's last name and the page number.
- D. This option incorrectly uses 'p.' before the page number; MLA style simply uses the number.
MLA Parenthetical Citation
In MLA style, parenthetical citations include the author's last name and the page number(s) from which the information was taken, placed in parentheses at the end of the sentence before the final punctuation.
- Format: (AuthorLastName PageNumber).
- No comma between author and page number.
- Punctuation goes after the closing parenthesis.
- If author is mentioned in the sentence, only page number is needed in parentheses.
Memory trick: Author and page, then period on the stage.