How Do You Properly Cite a Table in MLA Format?

AvatarByMichael McQuay Table

When incorporating tables into your research paper, proper citation is essential to maintain academic integrity and give credit to original sources. Knowing how to cite a table in MLA format ensures that your work adheres to the widely accepted guidelines used in humanities and liberal arts disciplines. Whether you are including a table you created based on gathered data or reproducing one from another author’s work, understanding the nuances of MLA citation will enhance the credibility and clarity of your writing.

Citing tables in MLA format involves more than just listing a source in the bibliography; it requires attention to detail in how you present the table within your text and how you acknowledge its origin. This process helps readers trace the data back to its source, fostering transparency and scholarly rigor. As tables often condense complex information into a visual format, correctly citing them also respects the intellectual property of the original creators.

In the sections that follow, you will discover the fundamental principles behind MLA table citations, including when and how to cite, the differences between original and reproduced tables, and tips for seamless integration into your paper. Whether you are a student, researcher, or writer, mastering this skill will elevate the professionalism and accuracy of your academic work.

Formatting and Including Tables in MLA Style

When incorporating tables into an MLA-style paper, it is important to maintain clarity and consistency with the overall formatting guidelines. Tables should be used to present data or information that is better displayed visually rather than described in text. Proper formatting ensures that readers can easily understand and reference the table.

Tables must be labeled and numbered consecutively in the order they are mentioned in the text. The label “Table” and its number should be placed above the table, flush left, followed by a descriptive title in title case. The title should be italicized and concise but informative enough to explain what the table shows.

The table itself should be clean and simple, avoiding excessive lines or shading. Horizontal lines may be used to separate the table header from the body, but vertical lines are generally discouraged. Use a legible font consistent with the rest of the paper, and ensure the text size is appropriate for readability.

Below the table, provide any necessary notes or source citations. If the table is adapted or directly taken from another source, a full MLA citation should be included in a note beneath the table or in the Works Cited list, depending on preference and context.

Citing Tables Within the Text

When referring to a table in the body of your paper, mention the table number explicitly to direct readers efficiently. For example, use phrases like “see Table 2” or “as shown in Table 1.” This approach improves clarity and helps readers locate the relevant data without confusion.

If the table is your original creation based on data you gathered, simply label it as described and refer to it in the text. However, if the table is adapted or borrowed from another source, you must credit the source both in the note under the table and in your Works Cited list.

Example of a Properly Formatted Table in MLA

Below is an example illustrating how to present and cite a table in MLA format. The table includes a label, title, well-organized data, and a source note.

Table 3: Average Monthly Temperatures in Major Cities (°F)
City January April July October
New York 32 55 79 60
Chicago 26 53 75 57
Los Angeles 58 63 75 68

Note. Data adapted from National Weather Service, 2023.

Key Points to Remember When Citing Tables

  • Label and number: Always label tables as “Table” followed by a number (e.g., Table 1, Table 2) in the order they appear.
  • Title: Provide a clear, italicized title immediately below the label.
  • Source citation: Cite the source directly under the table if it is adapted or reproduced, or include it in the Works Cited page if preferred.
  • In-text reference: Refer to tables by their number in your writing to guide readers.
  • Simplicity and clarity: Use minimal lines and formatting for ease of reading.

Citing Tables in MLA Format

When incorporating tables into your academic work, proper citation in MLA style ensures you credit the original source and maintain academic integrity. Tables can be either created by you or reproduced from another work. The citation approach varies accordingly.

MLA style requires that any table or figure taken from a source or adapted from one must be clearly cited both in the text and in the Works Cited list. Below are guidelines to cite tables effectively.

How to Cite a Table Created from Another Source

If the table is directly reproduced or adapted from an existing source, follow these steps:

  • Label the table: Use “Table” followed by a number (e.g., Table 1), in the order they appear in your paper.
  • Provide a descriptive title: Place it below the table label in italics and title case.
  • Include an in-text citation: Immediately below the title, provide a parenthetical citation referencing the original source.
  • List the full citation in Works Cited: The source from which the table originated must appear in the Works Cited list.

Example format for a table note:

Table 1. Average Rainfall by Month in 2023
(Source: Smith 45)

In this example, “Smith” is the author’s last name, and “45” is the page number where the table is found.

How to Format Table Citations in the Text

MLA style places emphasis on clear, concise citations that allow readers to trace back to the source easily. The table note should be aligned left and positioned directly under the table.

Element Example Details
Table Label and Number Table 2. Number tables sequentially throughout the paper.
Table Title Comparison of Energy Consumption Place in italics, title case, directly after the label.
Source Citation (Johnson 112) Include author’s last name and page number from the source.

Works Cited Entry for a Table Source

The Works Cited entry should follow MLA format for the type of source used (book, article, website, etc.). For example, a book citation looks like this:

Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Year.

If the table is from a journal article, the entry would include the article title, journal name, volume, issue, year, and pages:

Last Name, First Name. "Title of Article." Title of Journal, vol. 10, no. 2, 2023, pp. 100-120.

Citing Tables You Create Using Your Own Data

If you create a table based on your own research or data analysis, MLA does not require a citation. However, you should still:

  • Label the table (e.g., Table 3).
  • Provide a clear, descriptive title in italics.
  • Reference or explain the source of your data in the text or in a note if it draws from multiple origins.

Example:

Table 3. Survey Results on Student Study Habits

If data were collected through your own survey, no external citation is necessary. If data were aggregated or adapted from multiple sources, acknowledge that clearly in a note below the table.

Additional Tips for MLA Table Citations

  • Always place tables as close as possible to the related text.
  • Use consistent formatting throughout your document for all tables and figures.
  • For electronic sources, if page numbers are unavailable, use the author’s last name only in the parenthetical citation.
  • Do not include the table number or title in the parenthetical citation—only the source author and page number.
  • Ensure the table is readable and clearly formatted; MLA emphasizes clarity and simplicity.

Expert Guidance on How To Cite a Table in MLA Format

Dr. Emily Carter (Professor of English Literature and MLA Style Specialist). When citing a table in MLA format, it is essential to include a clear label such as “Table” followed by the number, a concise title, and a citation of the source either directly below the table or in the Works Cited list. This ensures clarity and proper attribution, maintaining academic integrity throughout your work.

James Mitchell (Academic Writing Consultant, University Writing Center). The MLA Handbook recommends that when you incorporate a table from another source, you must provide a caption that includes the table number and title, then cite the source beneath the table using MLA citation style. This approach helps readers easily locate the original source while keeping your document professionally formatted.

Linda Nguyen (Research Librarian and Citation Expert). Citing tables in MLA involves more than just referencing the source; it requires proper labeling and a brief explanatory title. Always place the citation immediately below the table, formatted according to MLA guidelines, which typically includes author, title, and publication details. This practice enhances transparency and supports scholarly communication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I cite a table in MLA format?
To cite a table in MLA, include a brief title or description, followed by the source information. If the table is from a book or article, cite the original source in the Works Cited list and provide a parenthetical citation below the table.

Should I number tables when citing them in MLA?
Yes, number tables consecutively (e.g., Table 1, Table 2) in the order they appear in your paper. Place the table number and title above the table.

Where do I place the citation for a table in MLA style?
Place the source citation directly below the table as a caption. Include the author’s name, title of the source, and publication details as needed.

Do I need permission to use a table from another source in MLA?
If the table is copyrighted, you may need permission to reproduce it. Always check copyright restrictions and provide proper attribution regardless.

How do I format a table created by me in MLA?
Label the table with a number and title above it. No citation is necessary if you created the table yourself, but you should explain the data source if applicable.

Can I paraphrase data from a table instead of citing the table directly?
Yes, you can paraphrase the information and cite the original source in the text and Works Cited list, but direct use of the table requires proper citation below the table.
citing a table in MLA format requires careful attention to detail to ensure proper attribution and clarity. The citation should include a clear label such as “Table” followed by a number, a descriptive title, and a source citation if the table is not original. When incorporating tables from external sources, it is essential to provide a full citation either in the figure note or in the works cited list, following MLA guidelines for the type of source used.

Additionally, tables created by the author should be clearly labeled and referenced within the text to guide readers effectively. Proper formatting, including consistent labeling and placement near the relevant text, enhances the readability and professionalism of the document. Understanding these conventions helps maintain academic integrity and supports the reader’s ability to locate and verify source information.

Ultimately, mastering how to cite tables in MLA format contributes to producing well-organized and credible scholarly work. By adhering to MLA standards, writers demonstrate respect for intellectual property and facilitate clear communication of data and research findings. This attention to detail reflects a commitment to scholarly excellence and ethical writing practices.

Author Profile

Avatar
Michael McQuay
Michael McQuay is the creator of Enkle Designs, an online space dedicated to making furniture care simple and approachable. Trained in Furniture Design at the Rhode Island School of Design and experienced in custom furniture making in New York, Michael brings both craft and practicality to his writing.

Now based in Portland, Oregon, he works from his backyard workshop, testing finishes, repairs, and cleaning methods before sharing them with readers. His goal is to provide clear, reliable advice for everyday homes, helping people extend the life, comfort, and beauty of their furniture without unnecessary complexity.