How to Cite a Map in MLA 9th Edition

Format Template

The general pattern for citing a map in MLA 9th Edition:

In-Text Citation Example

How the citation appears within the body of your paper:

Reference List Entry Example

The full citation as it appears in your Works Cited:

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Name the author or creator

   List the cartographer or creating organization in Last, First format. If no specific author is credited, begin with the map title.

2. 2

   Add the map title

   Place the map title in quotation marks using title case. End with a period inside the closing quotation mark.

3. 3

   Include the atlas or source title

   Italicize the title of the atlas, book, or website where the map appears. Follow with a comma.

4. 4

   Add the publisher and year

   Write the publisher name, followed by a comma and the year of publication. End with a period.

5. 5

   Include a URL for online maps

   If the map was accessed online, add the URL at the end: ...2022. www.nationalgeographic.com/maps.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to place the map title in quotation marks.
• Not italicizing the atlas or source title.
• Omitting the publisher name.
• Failing to indicate the format when citing a physical map.
• Confusing the cartographer with the publisher.

Frequently Asked Questions

Information You Will Need

Before creating your citation, gather the following information from your map:

• Cartographer/Author
• Title
• Scale
• Publisher
• Year
• URL