MLA Citation Formatting Rules
Consider the following: This argument was emphasized by Thompson (1992:12).
Why is this NOT a correct way to format a general style MLA in-text citation, and how should it be properly cited?
A
The page number is not necessary; it should be Thompson (1992) to reference the year.
B
The year of publication is not necessary; it should be Thompson (12) to reference the page number.
C
The surname of the author must be in parenthesis as (Thompson, 1992:12).
D
The name and surname of the author must be included as John Thompson (1992:12).