How do you cite a YouTube video in MLA format? Citing a YouTube video in MLA format can be a bit tricky, especially if you are not familiar with the guidelines. However, with a few simple steps, you can ensure that your citation is accurate and follows the MLA style guidelines. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cite a YouTube video in MLA format.
Firstly, it is important to note that when citing a YouTube video in MLA format, you need to include the following information: the name of the video, the name of the uploader, the date of posting, the title of the video, the URL, and the date of access. This information is crucial for readers to locate the video and for proper citation.
Here is a basic format for citing a YouTube video in MLA format:
Video Title. Created by Uploader Name. Date of Posting. YouTube. Web. Date of Access.
Let’s break down the components of this format:
1. Video Title: Start with the title of the video. If the video does not have a title, you can use the first few words of the video description.
2. Created by Uploader Name: Include the name of the person or organization who uploaded the video. If the uploader’s name is not available, you can use “Uploader Unknown” or “No Author.” However, it is always best to include the name if possible.
3. Date of Posting: The date the video was posted on YouTube. If the date is not available, you can use “n.d.” (no date).
4. YouTube: The platform where the video is hosted.
5. Web: This indicates that the source is a web page.
6. Date of Access: The date you accessed the video. This is important for ensuring that the citation is up-to-date.
Here is an example of a complete citation for a YouTube video in MLA format:
How to Bake a Cake. Created by Chef John. 14 Jan. 2019. YouTube. Web. 5 Aug. 2021.
By following these steps and the provided format, you can easily cite a YouTube video in MLA format. Remember to always double-check the accuracy of your citation, as proper citation is essential for academic integrity and giving credit to the original source.
