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How to Cite a Government Document in MLA (9th edition)

Learn how to cite government reports, legislation, and official documents 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 government document in your Works Cited page:

Agency Name. Title of Document. Publisher, Year.

MLA In-Text Citation

Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:

Parenthetical

(Agency Name 12)

Narrative

The Agency reports that...

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your government document.
  2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the MLA (9th edition) template shown above.
  3. Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
  4. Add to your Works Cited: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
  5. Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match MLA requirements.

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Cite a Government Document in Other Styles

Government Document in APAGovernment Document in ChicagoGovernment Document in HarvardGovernment Document in VancouverGovernment Document in IEEE

Cite Other Sources in MLA

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