Understanding MLA Format- The Necessity of Including the Date Accessed in Your Citations

Does MLA require date accessed? This is a common question among students and researchers who are adhering to the Modern Language Association (MLA) citation format. The MLA Handbook, which provides guidelines for writing research papers and citing sources, has been updated over the years to reflect changes in academic practices and technology. One of the key points of contention is whether or not the date of access should be included in MLA citations.

The MLA Handbook states that the date of access is not required for every citation. Instead, it suggests that the date of access should only be included if it is necessary to clarify the information or if the source is likely to change over time. For example, if you are citing a website that is known to be frequently updated or revised, including the date of access can help readers locate the specific version of the information you used. Similarly, if you are citing a digital source that is available only online, providing the date of access can be helpful for readers who may have difficulty finding the exact source you referenced.

However, the MLA Handbook also emphasizes that the primary focus of a citation should be on providing enough information for readers to locate the source. In most cases, the author’s name, the title of the source, and the title of the container (if applicable) are sufficient for readers to identify and locate the source. The date of access is considered a secondary piece of information and should be included only when necessary.

Understanding when to include the date of access in MLA citations is crucial for maintaining consistency and accuracy in academic writing. Here are some guidelines to help you determine whether or not to include the date of access:

1. Include the date of access when the source is likely to change over time, such as a website that is frequently updated or revised.
2. Include the date of access when the source is available only online and readers may have difficulty finding the exact version you referenced.
3. Exclude the date of access when the source is a book, journal article, or other print material that is unlikely to change.
4. Exclude the date of access when the source is a widely available online resource, such as a government website or a well-known academic database, that is not known to change frequently.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your MLA citations are both accurate and consistent, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of your research and providing a clear trail for readers to follow. Remember, the goal of citation is to help your readers locate the sources you have used, and including the date of access is a tool to be used judiciously and only when necessary.