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Our Complete Guide to Citing in MHRA Format

Welcome to our MHRA citation guide, a tool created to demystify the complexities of citing in humanities and arts research. This guide will aid you in generating precise MHRA citations, either manually or using popular citation machines.
Master the art of creating comprehensive bibliographies, with our in-depth explanation and examples.
We hope that by the end of this guide, you'll be adept at generating MHRA citations, compiling bibliographies, and enhancing the authenticity of your research work.






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MHRA Referencing Style Overview
The MHRA referencing style is renowned in humanities disciplines, offering a uniform method for acknowledging sources ranging from books to film and art. This method not only helps to establish the credibility of an argument but also provides a consistent and organized way for readers to trace and verify references.
Within the MHRA framework, citations are primarily handled through footnotes and an end-of-document bibliography.
Footnotes: In the MHRA system, footnotes serve as the principal medium to create citations. These are detailed annotations, pinpointing exact pages or specific sections of the utilized sources, appearing at the bottom of each page where a reference is made.
Bibliography: Essential for an MHRA-styled document, the bibliography generator consolidates all footnoted references, providing a comprehensive list at the conclusion of the paper. It's a tool that ensures readers have a one-stop repository of all sources, facilitating easier access and verification.
Embracing the MHRA style through the use of a citation generator is imperative for crafting meticulous and authoritative pieces in the humanities. It not only fortifies your arguments with well-sourced information but also elevates the overall readability and credibility of your work. So, whether you're an emerging scholar, seasoned academic, or anyone venturing into humanities research, utilizing an MHRA bibliography generator is pivotal in producing compelling and trustworthy writing.
MHRA Footnote Formatting Guide
Placement:
- Footnotes in the MHRA style are placed at the bottom of the page where a reference is made.
- Use a horizontal line to separate footnotes from the main body text.
- Footnotes should be numbered consecutively throughout the document using Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.).
Font and size:
- Footnotes should be in the same font as the main text but reduced in size (usually by 2 points).
- Example: If the main text is 12-point Times New Roman, footnotes should be 10-point Times New Roman.
Basic book citation:
- Format: Author's first name Last name, Title (Place of Publication: Publisher, Year), page number.
- Example: John Smith, History of Art (London: Artistic Press, 2005), p. 45.
Journal article citation:
- Format: Author's first name Last name, 'Article Title', Journal Name, volume number (Year), page number.
- Example: Jane Doe, 'Exploring Modern Art', Art Journal, 20 (2007), p. 123.
Subsequent citations:
- For works that are cited more than once, use a shortened form after the first full citation.
- Format: Author's Last name, Shortened Title, page number.
- Example (from our previous book citation): Smith, History of Art, p. 47.
Multiple citations in a single footnote:
- Separate each citation within a single footnote using a semi-colon.
- Example: Smith, History of Art, p. 47; Doe, 'Exploring Modern Art', p. 125.
Using Ibid.:
- "Ibid." (Latin for "in the same place") is used if you're referencing the same source (and same page number) as the immediately preceding footnote.
- If you're referencing the same source but a different page, use "Ibid." followed by the new page number.
- Examples: Ibid. or Ibid., p. 48.
Editor or translator:
- If referencing a book that's edited or translated, include the editor or translator's name after the title.
- Format for editor: Title, ed. by Editor's first name Last name (Place of Publication: Publisher, Year), page number.
- Example: Artistic Trends, ed. by Emily Stone (London: Creative Publishers, 2009), p. 32.
Chapters in edited books:
- Format: Author's first name Last name, 'Chapter Title', in Title of Book, ed. by Editor's first name Last name (Place of Publication: Publisher, Year), page number.
- Example: Mike Brown, 'Impressionism and Its Roots', in Artistic Styles of the 19th Century, ed. by Emily Stone (London: Creative Publishers, 2010), p. 59.
Online sources:
- Format: Author's first name Last name, Title [online], (Year), URL [accessed Date].
- Example: Alice Green, Digital Art Trends [online], (2012), www.greenart.com [accessed 20 April 2023].
Remember, while the above provides a good overview of footnotes in the MHRA style, always refer to the latest edition of the MHRA Style Guide for comprehensive and updated guidance.
MHRA Bibliography Formatting Guide
Placement:
- Situate the bibliography at the conclusion of your document.
- It offers a cumulative list of all the sources you've referenced throughout your work.
Heading:
- The bibliography should be headed with the word "Bibliography," centrally aligned.
Font & size:
- Consistency is key: ensure that the font and size of the bibliography match that of the main text.
- Typically, a legible font like Times New Roman in 12-point size is used.
Spacing:
- Every entry within the bibliography should be single-spaced.
- Separate distinct entries with one blank line to enhance readability.
Indentation:
- Use a hanging indent for bibliography entries. This means that the first line of each entry aligns flush with the left margin, but any subsequent lines in the same entry should be indented by about 0.5 inches or 1.27 cm.
Alphabetical order:
- Organize the entries alphabetically based on the surname of the author or editor. When a source lacks an author or editor, utilize the title to determine its placement.
Margins:
- Maintain standard margins, which are typically set at 1 inch (or 2.54 cm) on all sides of the page.
Consistency:
- Ensure uniformity across entries, especially concerning punctuation and capitalization.
Citing multiple works by the same author:
- For multiple works by the same author, use the author's name for the first entry only. For subsequent entries, substitute the author's name with a long dash (—) before the title.
Using URLs for online sources:
- For works accessed online, ensure URLs are provided in full. However, avoid underlining them or using any special color. They should be in plain text.

Remember, while the above provides a foundational structure for the MHRA bibliography formatting, it's essential to refer to the MHRA Style Guide for any intricate details or clarifications.
Cite Books in MHRA
Nestled in the academic world, the MHRA style of referencing is the beacon of clarity, particularly for those delving into humanities research. Known for its precision and structure, the MHRA style not only ensures that your work maintains integrity but also displays your respect for the original authors' intellectual property. When it comes to books, a cornerstone of most humanities research, referencing them properly is both an art and a necessity.
For example:
Multiple authors. If a book boasts multiple authors, simply list them in the order they appear on the title page, and separate each author with 'and':
Edited books: If you're referencing an edited book, which is a collection of works by various authors, the format is slightly tweaked.
Multi-volume books: When referencing books that stretch over multiple volumes, it's crucial to indicate the specific volume you're referring to. This ensures the reader can trace your source with precision.
Translated books: For books that have been translated, you need to give credit not just to the original author, but also to the translator who brought the work into the language you accessed.
Pro Tip: Double-Check for Accuracy
When referencing specialized sources like multi-volume or translated books in the MHRA style, always double-check for accuracy. These sources often have multiple details that are easy to overlook, but each is crucial for the reader's ability to trace your research. Using citation generators like Bibcitation can ensure you nail the format every time!
Cite Journal Articles in MHRA
Celebrated for its detailed and robust structure, MHRA showcases a writer's commitment to acknowledging the pioneers of their field. When it's about journal articles, the lifeblood of continuous academic conversation, it's vital to get the referencing spot on. With MHRA's guidance, one can effortlessly sail through the tides of accurate citation, ensuring every scholarly contribution gets its due recognition.
For example:
Online journals. For articles accessed electronically, you'll need to provide access information, making it easy for readers to follow in your digital footsteps:
Citing a journal article without an author, issue or volume number. When these details are missing, simply omit this information from the citation:
Pro Tip: Keep Track of Missing Details
Always ensure the accuracy of your references, especially when working with articles missing standard details. When information like author, volume, or issue number is absent, cross-check the article details with the journal's official website or database. Proper referencing not only makes your work trustworthy but also aids readers in tracing back to your original sources.
Cite Websites in MHRA
In today's digital age, the World Wide Web is a vast ocean of information, waiting to be tapped by eager scholars and researchers. The challenge, however, lies in ensuring that these digital footprints are traced back to their origin. With MHRA (Modern Humanities Research Association) style in your toolkit, crediting online sources becomes a seamless endeavour, ensuring that every digital breadcrumb is appropriately acknowledged.
For example:
Website without a named author. Some websites don't explicitly name an author. In such cases, lead with the title of the webpage, followed by the site's name, publication date, and then the URL.
Webpage with no date. In instances where the publication date is missing, it's recommended to use 'n.d.' (no date) in its place. This ensures the reader understands that the omission is intentional and not an oversight.
Pro Tip: Keep Receipts
Due to the transient nature of online content, web pages can often undergo modifications or even disappear. Always ensure you note the access date of a website. It's a safeguard, ensuring your readers can trace the version of the content you cited, even if changes occur later.
Cite Book Chapters in MHRA
The nuanced world of academic writing often requires us to dive deep into specific chapters of a book, illuminating a fragment of knowledge while still acknowledging the vast tapestry from which it was drawn. In the realm of the MHRA (Modern Humanities Research Association) style, the art of referencing book chapters carries its own distinct cadence, one that resonates with both precision and respect for authors. Here's your step-by-step guide to ensuring each chapter citation harmoniously blends into your research narrative.
For example:
Chapter in a multi-volume book: Sometimes, books span multiple volumes, each a tome of its own. In such cases, ensure the volume is clearly indicated.
Chapter in a translated book: If you're delving into translated works, it's vital to acknowledge both the author and the translator to ensure the integrity of your reference.
Pro Tip: to Cite or Not to Cite?
If the chapter you're referencing contains several notable points, don't hesitate to cite multiple page numbers. This not only adds depth to your research but also guides readers who wish to explore these insights further. Remember, referencing isn't merely an obligation; it's an academic courtesy that weaves connectivity into the fabric of research.
Cite Newspapers & Magazines in MHRA
Within the kaleidoscope of academic sources, newspapers and magazines shimmer with real-time relevance and cultural insights. In the MHRA (Modern Humanities Research Association) referencing style, capturing these ephemeral but essential voices requires a specific approach. A snapshot in time, these citations help authenticate your arguments, adding a dimension of immediacy to your research. Here's how to seamlessly weave these references into your academic tapestry.
For example:
Online newspaper or magazine article: Digital versions often include URLs and may lack page numbers. Always provide the date you accessed the article online, as content can change or be removed.
Article without a known author: Occasionally, articles might not credit a specific author. In such cases, begin your citation with the article title.
Pro Tip: Form an Opinion
Newspaper and magazine articles are typically not peer-reviewed and may contain opinion-based content. Always ensure the credibility and relevance of the article in the context of your research. While they offer contemporary perspectives, ensure your core arguments are supported by a mix of primary and other reliable secondary sources.
Cite Conference Papers in MHRA
In the vast theatre of academic scholarship, conference papers are akin to live performances: vibrant, dynamic, and filled with current research. These documents, delivered at academic gatherings, contain insights and findings that are yet to undergo the rigorous test of journal publication. The MHRA style gracefully captures these nuances, ensuring that scholars get due credit for their academic endeavours. Here's how to bring these conference notes into the limelight of your research.
For example:
Online conference paper: The digital age brings with it the convenience of online conferences, enabling scholars from around the world to share knowledge without geographical limitations. Citing papers from such conferences requires a little extra detail, primarily the URL and the access date.
Pro Tip: Capture the Moment
As with all online sources, it's pivotal to include the date of access. Websites can be updated, or content might be moved or removed, and specifying when you accessed the material ensures clarity regarding the version you are referencing. When considering an online conference paper, it's also a good practice to check if there's a published or peer-reviewed version available, providing a more finalized perspective on the topic.
Cite Theses & Dissertations in MHRA
The culmination of years of research, a thesis or dissertation, is a comprehensive document that represents the depth of one's academic commitment. Just as a researcher has delved deep into their subject, ensuring that these critical pieces of scholarly work are correctly cited is paramount. The MHRA style understands this importance and provides a clear framework for referencing such resources.
For example:
Online newspaper or magazine article: Many universities are now making theses and dissertations available online, making it easier for researchers and scholars to access these resources from anywhere in the world.
Pro Tip: Trace Your Steps
When citing an electronic thesis or dissertation, it's essential to capture the exact URL where the document is hosted. This not only helps the reader trace back to the original source but also acknowledges the university's repository, a treasure trove of scholarly works. Furthermore, as with other online materials, always remember to note the date you accessed the thesis, as online content can sometimes be updated or moved.
Cite Social Media Posts in MHRA
In today's digital age, social media isn't merely about socializing or sharing holiday snaps. It's become a platform where ideas, news, and scholarly opinions are frequently exchanged. With the academic realm recognizing the validity of these platforms as sources of information, knowing how to reference them appropriately becomes indispensable. MHRA, ever-evolving, has adapted its style to guide researchers on citing these new-age platforms with traditional precision.
Citing Twitter posts: A tweet is a post made on the Twitter platform, and its transient nature makes it essential to capture not just the content but also the time of the post.
Citing Facebook posts: Facebook is a vast platform, with both individuals and organizations sharing valuable insights.
Citing Instagram posts: Instagram, primarily a visual platform, often has posts that can be pertinent, especially in fields like art, fashion, and pop culture studies.
Cite Films in MHRA
The world of academia isn't confined merely to texts. Films, as visual narratives, offer rich insights into culture, history, artistry, and human behavior. When incorporating these cinematic gems into research, it becomes crucial to acknowledge their creators accurately. The MHRA style, traditionally rooted in humanities, recognizes this and offers a structured approach to citing films with the gravitas they deserve.
For example:
Citing a film from an online platform: With streaming platforms becoming the norm, it's often required to cite films watched on platforms like Netflix or Amazon.
Pro Tip: Highlighting a Performance
For films with multiple notable actors, you can include up to three primary performers in the "perf." section. If you wish to highlight more actors or emphasize a specific performance, it's advisable to discuss it in the main body of your work and ensure they're acknowledged in the citation. Always remember to cite the version of the film you've viewed, especially if various cuts or editions are available.
Cite Music & Songs in MHRA
Music, a universal language, touches the soul, narrates stories, and captures moments in time. When one ventures into academic discussions involving music, it becomes essential to cite these melodious pieces with accuracy and respect. Whether you're referencing Beethoven's symphonies or the Beatles' hits, the MHRA style provides a structured pathway to ensure the creators and performers are rightfully acknowledged.
For example:
Citing an entire album: If you're discussing an entire album, the citation differs slightly.
Citing songs on online music platforms: Digital music streaming is the norm today, and songs or albums accessed through platforms like Spotify or Apple Music have a modified citation.
Pro Tip: Choose What's Important
If you're discussing classical compositions, remember that the emphasis might shift from the performer to the composer. For instance, citing Beethoven's Ninth Symphony would prioritize Beethoven over the orchestra or conductor. Always ensure you're highlighting the most relevant contributor in your citations, based on your academic discourse.
Cite YouTube Videos & TED Talks in MHRA
In this digital age, platforms like YouTube and TED have transformed how we consume knowledge and entertainment. These platforms host a myriad of voices, ideas, and perspectives that often find their way into academic discourses. Acknowledging these digital troves of information in your work requires precision, and the MHRA style is here to ensure that these online creators and speakers receive their due credit.
Citing a YouTube video: Whether it's an educational lecture or a DIY tutorial, when referencing a video from YouTube, ensure you capture the essentials.
For example:
Citing a TED Talk (From TED Website): TED Talks are renowned for their insightful content. When citing them from the TED website, follow this structure:
For example:
Citing a TED Talk (From YouTube): Sometimes, TED Talks are viewed on YouTube. When citing them from YouTube, the citation slightly changes.
For example:
Pro Tip: Pay Attention to Credibility
Consider the credibility of the content you're referencing from platforms like YouTube or TED Talks. Not all content uploaded to these platforms undergoes rigorous peer review. When choosing to cite a video, evaluate the expertise and qualifications of the creator or speaker, and the accuracy and relevance of the content to your research topic. This ensures that you're integrating reliable sources into your academic work.
Cite Plays & Long Works in MHRA
In the labyrinth of literary scholarship, plays and long works hold a distinguished position, echoing the timeless narratives of human existence. With the MHRA (Modern Humanities Research Association) style, scholars have a reliable tool to navigate this intricate realm, attributing due credit to playwrights and authors. Navigating this intricate genre requires precision, and the MHRA style ensures your references for plays and long works are both clear and respectful.
Citing a printed play: When citing a play, begin with the playwright's name, followed by the title of the play (in italics), the act, scene, and line numbers (if available), and finally, details of the publication.
For example:
Citing modern editions or anthologies of plays: For plays sourced from modern editions or anthologies, mention the editor's name.
For example:
Citing epic poems and long works: Epic poems and other extensive literary works can be cited similarly to plays, focusing on sections, chapters, or stanzas.
For example:
Pro Tip: Check Your Edition
When referencing plays, particularly those with multiple editions, it's crucial to be consistent in your references. If you're using a specific edition or translation of a play or long work, always cite from that edition to ensure continuity in your references.
Cite Poems in MHRA
Poetry, a sublime form of expression, captures the human spirit in verses and rhymes. When it comes to anthologies, they are a curated collection of these artistic gems, reflecting myriad voices and themes. In the academic world, giving credit to these individual voices, as well as to the curators of these collections, is paramount. The MHRA (Modern Humanities Research Association) style offers a structured way to do just that, ensuring each poem is acknowledged with the precision it deserves.
Citing a single poem from an anthology: When referencing a single poem from an anthology, start with the poet's name, the title of the poem (in single quotes), followed by the title of the anthology (in italics), the editor's name, the place of publication, publisher, year, and finally, the pages where the poem can be found.
For example:
Citing multiple poems from the same anthology: If citing multiple poems from the same anthology, a consolidated reference to the anthology can be made after individually listing each poem.
For example:
Pro Tip: Hold Your Work to a Standard
When referencing multiple poems from the same anthology, ensure you maintain a consistent order, usually alphabetical by poem title or as they appear in the anthology. This helps maintain clarity and ensures readers can easily locate the referenced works.
Cite Religious & Sacred Texts in MHRA
Religious and sacred texts are the ancient heartbeat of countless civilizations, presenting beliefs, ethics, and narratives that have shaped societies for millennia. These texts, both captivating and profound, deserve due respect in academic and literary circles. And when it comes to referencing them in your work, precision is essential. The MHRA referencing style provides an elegant method to ensure that scholars, theologians, and general readers alike can trace back your references to the original sources of spiritual wisdom.
Citing the Bible: Given the unique structure of the Bible with its books, chapters, and verses, the MHRA style recommends citing specific passages without needing a bibliography entry.
For example:
Citing the Quran: Similar to the Bible, the Quran has a unique structure with its Surahs (chapters) and Ayahs (verses).
For example:
Pro Tip: Citing Other Sacred Texts
For other religious texts that might have a more standard book structure, you would reference them similarly to other books. However, it's crucial to provide specific details to ensure clarity.
Cite Lecture Notes in MHRA
From the echoing halls of universities to the intimate spaces of small seminar rooms, lectures are the backbone of the academic experience. They convey ideas, spark discussions, and help anchor foundational knowledge. Lecture notes, often the unsung heroes of academia, capture these fleeting moments of enlightenment. In the realm of research, it's vital to credit these resources appropriately. With the MHRA (Modern Humanities Research Association) referencing style at your disposal, the task becomes straightforward and precise.
Citing printed lecture notes: When you've received a printed copy of lecture notes or a handout, you'll want to treat it similarly to a printed source.
For example:
Citing online lecture notes: With the rise of digital education platforms, accessing lecture notes online has become more common. Ensure you mention the URL and the date you accessed these notes.
For example:
Pro Tip: Always Ask Permission
Always ensure that you have the lecturer's permission before citing their notes, especially if they are unpublished. This maintains academic etiquette and respects the intellectual property rights of the lecturer.
Cite Personal Communications in MHRA
The art of referencing isn't confined to just books or scholarly articles. In the realm of humanities research, many insights emerge from personal interactions — conversations, letters, emails, and more. These insights often become integral to a researcher's thesis or argument. Recognizing the value of such personal exchanges, the MHRA (Modern Humanities Research Association) style provides guidelines on how to bring these unique, sometimes fleeting, communications into the formal academic landscape. Let's delve into the appropriate method to cite personal communications under the MHRA style.
Citing letters: When citing personal letters, mention the author of the letter first, followed by the descriptor "letter to", then the recipient's name, and the date.
For example:
Citing emails: Citing emails is similar to letters, but it's important to include that it was an email communication.
For example:
Citing unpublished conversations: When referencing a conversation or information gleaned from a private discussion, it's necessary to indicate it was a personal communication, ensuring clarity.
For example:
Pro Tip: Use Personal Insights Wisely
Always remember that personal communications do not have a public archival source, making them non-verifiable for readers. Hence, while they provide valuable insights, use them judiciously and in contexts where their absence won't undermine your argument's credibility. Additionally, be meticulous in noting details at the time of the communication to ensure accuracy when referencing later.
MHRA Style: Final Notes
Navigating the intricacies of the MHRA referencing style can seem daunting, especially with such a variety of sources to cite. From books to personal communications, each source type presents its unique set of rules and challenges. However, with the comprehensive guide we've journeyed through, mastering the MHRA style becomes a seamless endeavour. It's not merely about conforming to academic standards, but also about respecting and acknowledging the intellectual efforts of others.
As you proceed with your writing, always remember the importance of accurate citations; they lend credibility to your work and ensure you are part of the scholarly conversation in an ethically sound manner. Whether you're citing a YouTube video or a revered sacred text, every reference counts.
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