Introduction:

Citing sources is an important practice in academic writing, ensuring that proper credit is given to those whose ideas and information have been included in your work. When it comes to citing interviews in Modern Language Association (MLA) format, there are three common ways this can be done. In this article, we will explore each of these methods and provide step-by-step instructions on how to properly cite an interview in MLA.

1. Personal interviews:

When you have conducted an interview yourself, it is considered a personal interview or communication. To cite a personal interview in MLA format, follow these steps:

– Begin with the interviewee’s name in last name, first name format.

– Add the descriptor “Personal interview” (without quotes).

– Include the date of the interview.

Works Cited entry example:

Doe, John. Personal interview. 20 June 2021.

In-text citation example:

(John Doe, pers. comm., June 20, 2021)

2. Published or broadcast interviews:

If you are citing a published or broadcast interview from a printed source, radio, television or online platform such as podcast or YouTube video, follow these guidelines for proper MLA formatting:

– Begin by listing the interviewer’s name in last name, first name format.

– Add the phrase “Interview with” followed by the interviewee’s name.

– Include the title of the publication or program where the interview was found (italicized) and any other relevant information such as volume/issue numbers for print sources or publisher names for online sources.

– Specify the publication/broadcast date.

– For online sources, include the URL.

Works Cited entry example:

Smith, Jane. Interview with John Doe. The Weekly Podcast, episode 10, XYZ Media Inc., 15 June 2021, www.example.com/podcast/weekly_episode10.

In-text citation example:

(Jane Smith, The Weekly Podcast)

3. Citing an interview cited within another source:

Occasionally, you may come across an interview within another source, such as a book or article. In these cases, MLA style requires you to cite the original interviewee and the source where you found the interview. To do this:

– Begin by citing the original interviewee in last name, first name format.

– Add the phrase “qtd. in” (for “quoted in”).

– Follow with the citation information for the source where you found the interview.

Works Cited entry example:

Doe, John. Qtd. in Jane Smith’s “An Insightful Conversation with John Doe.” The Academic Journal, vol. 5, no. 2, 2021, pp. 123-130.

In-text citation example:

(John Doe, qtd. in Smith 126)

Conclusion:

Using one of these three methods will allow you to properly cite an interview in MLA format, whether it’s a personal communication or taken from another source. By following these guidelines meticulously, you will ensure that your academic work gives proper credit to those whose ideas and contributions have shaped your own understanding and writing.