Knowing how to properly cite sources in an academic paper is crucial for establishing your credibility as a writer and researcher. When it comes to citing a PowerPoint presentation, the Modern Language Association (MLA) has guidelines on how to format both in-text citations and Works Cited list entries. This article will walk you through the basics of MLA citation style as it applies to PowerPoint presentations.
Why Citing Sources is Important
Citing sources serves several important purposes:
- It gives credit to the original creator of ideas and work that you have referenced
- It allows readers to locate the original sources you used if they want further information
- It demonstrates the research you have conducted to inform your writing
- It strengthens your credibility as an academic writer
Failing to properly cite sources constitutes plagiarism, which carries serious consequences. Formatting citations correctly is crucial for upholding academic integrity.
In-Text Citations for PowerPoint Presentations
When you reference information from a PowerPoint presentation in the text of your paper, include an in-text citation inside parentheses. The in-text citation will include the last name of the author(s) and the slide number where you found the information.
Example:
Statistics show that close to 96% of website traffic comes from search engines (Smith 5).
If you reference the PowerPoint content multiple times, include the in-text citation every time to properly attribute the content.
Creating a Works Cited Entry for a PowerPoint
You will also need to include a Works Cited entry at the end of your paper that provides the full publication details of the PowerPoint presentation. The format will vary slightly depending on whether the PowerPoint was viewed online or presented in person.
Citing an Online PowerPoint
For a PowerPoint found online, the Works Cited entry includes:
- Author’s Last name, First name
- “Presentation Title”
- Title of website/database in italics
- Date posted
- URL
Example:
Smith, Jane. “Introduction to APA Format.” ApaStyle.org, 5 Jan. 2022, https://apastyle.org/learn/tutorials/basics-tutorial.
Citing an In-Person PowerPoint
For a PowerPoint you viewed during an in-person presentation or lecture, the Works Cited entry includes:
- Presenter’s Last name, First name
- “Presentation Title”
- Venue, Location
- Date Conducted
- Medium of Publication
Example:
Smith, Jane. “Introduction to APA Format.” 2022 APA National Convention, Seattle WA, 4 Jan. 2022. PowerPoint presentation.
Be sure to use the medium “PowerPoint presentation” for clarity.
Creating APA PowerPoint Slides with Citations
If you create a PowerPoint presentation for a class project or paper, it’s important to include properly formatted citations on slides. Follow these tips:
- Include an in-text citation under any quotes or paraphrased content from an external source
- Create a slide at the end to list your Works Cited entries
- Format the entries using standard MLA guidelines
- Provide printed copies of the Works Cited slide for your audience
Proper attribution establishes you as an ethical researcher and prevents plagiarism in PowerPoint presentations.
Common Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about MLA citations for PowerPoint presentations:
How do I cite a PowerPoint with no author?
For a PowerPoint with no named author, use the title in place of the author’s name in both in-text citations and Works Cited entries.
What if I don’t know the date of an online PowerPoint?
If no date is available for an online PowerPoint, simply omit this element from your Works Cited entry.
How do I cite a PowerPoint from a lecture?
Cite the presenter’s name as the author and include details on where and when you viewed the in-person presentation.
What about slide titles and numbers?
The slide title and/or number can be included in your in-text citation but is not needed for Works Cited entries.
Key Takeaways
Citing PowerPoint presentations in your academic writing is crucial for upholding credibility and avoiding plagiarism allegations. Key points for MLA citations include:
- Use in-text citations with the author and slide number
- Create a full Works Cited entry
- Format online and in-person presentations differently
- Provide all available publication details
With the right information and proper formatting, citing PowerPoints doesn’t have to be complicated. Taking the time to accurately cite sources lends authority to your academic writing.
