How to Cite a Patent in MLA (9th edition)
Learn how to cite a patent or intellectual property filing in MLA format (9th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
MLA Works Cited Format
Here is the standard MLA format for citing a patent in your Works Cited page:
Inventor Last Name, First Name. Title of Patent. U.S. Patent Number XXXXXXX, Day Month Year.
MLA Example for a Patent
A complete MLA reference for a patent, formatted by the official MLA CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
Lindqvist, Erik. Automated Bibliographic Reference Parser. US 10,482,119 B2, 19 Nov. 2019, https://patents.example.org/US10482119.
Matching in-text citation: (Lindqvist)
MLA In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
(Inventor)
Narrative
Inventor describes...
Key MLA Formatting Rules
- List the inventor as the author.
- Include the patent number and the date issued.
- Identify the issuing patent office.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your patent.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the MLA (9th edition) template shown above.
- Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
- Add to your Works Cited: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
- Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match MLA requirements.
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