Citing Instagram Posts in MLA Style: A Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding the Basics of MLA Citation
Before we dive into the specifics of citing Instagram posts, it’s essential to understand the basics of MLA citation. MLA (Modern Language Association) style is a widely used citation format in the humanities, including literature, language, and cultural studies. In MLA, citations are used to credit the original authors of ideas, arguments, and sources.
Types of Citations in MLA Style
There are several types of citations in MLA style, including:
- In-Text Citations: These are citations that appear within the text of a work, such as a quote or a paraphrased idea.
- Works Cited Page: This is a list of sources cited in the text, usually in alphabetical order by author’s last name.
- Endnotes: These are small notes that appear at the bottom of a page, used to provide additional information or sources.
Citing Instagram Posts in MLA Style
Instagram posts are a type of online content that can be easily cited in MLA style. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cite an Instagram post in MLA style:
Step 1: Determine the Type of Citation
- In-Text Citation: If you’re citing a quote or a paraphrased idea from an Instagram post, use an in-text citation. For example: "As I scrolled through my Instagram feed, I noticed a post from @username that said ‘I’m so excited for the new season!’ (Instagram, n.d.)."
- Works Cited Page: If you’re citing a source that is not an Instagram post, such as a blog post or a book, use the Works Cited page. For example: "Instagram post by @username, posted on January 1, 2023, and available at https://www.instagram.com/username/(Instagram, n.d.)."
Step 2: Identify the Source
- Instagram Handle: The Instagram handle is the username of the account that posted the content. For example: @username.
- Post Title: The title of the post is the text that appears in the Instagram feed. For example: "I’m so excited for the new season!"
- Post Date: The date the post was posted is usually included in the caption. For example: "January 1, 2023"
Step 3: Format the Citation
- In-Text Citation: Use the following format: (Instagram, n.d.). "As I scrolled through my Instagram feed, I noticed a post from @username that said ‘I’m so excited for the new season!’"
- Works Cited Page: Use the following format: Instagram. "I’m so excited for the new season!" (Instagram, n.d.).
Step 4: Add Additional Information
- Author’s Last Name: If the author’s last name is not included in the caption, add it to the citation. For example: (Instagram, n.d.). "As I scrolled through my Instagram feed, I noticed a post from @username that said ‘I’m so excited for the new season!’ (Instagram, n.d.)."
- Source Title: If the source title is not included in the caption, add it to the citation. For example: (Instagram, n.d.). "I’m so excited for the new season!" (Instagram, n.d.).
Example of a Complete Citation
- Instagram post by @username, posted on January 1, 2023, and available at https://www.instagram.com/username/(Instagram, n.d.).
Tips and Variations
- Multiple Sources: If you’re citing multiple sources from an Instagram post, use a comma to separate the sources. For example: (Instagram, n.d., Instagram, n.d., Instagram, n.d.).
- No Author: If the author’s last name is not included in the caption, add it to the citation. For example: (Instagram, n.d.). "As I scrolled through my Instagram feed, I noticed a post from @username that said ‘I’m so excited for the new season!’"
- No Date: If the post date is not included in the caption, add it to the citation. For example: (Instagram, n.d.). "I’m so excited for the new season!" (Instagram, n.d.).
Conclusion
Citing Instagram posts in MLA style is a straightforward process that requires understanding the basics of MLA citation and the types of citations used in the style. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent. Remember to always check the source and provide additional information to support your citation.