Personal communication
Learn how to cite personal communication in MLA style. Follow correct in-text citation rules for emails, conversations, lectures and other private sources to reference sources accurately in your writing.
In-text citations
Place direct quotes between double quotation marks (" ").
| Citation format | Example |
| Paraphrasing | Research questions are often difficult to refine … (Gerlich). |
| Direct quote | "When I am planning my current novel, I take inspiration from …" (Norton). |
Works cited
- Personal communication between you and another person in letters, emails, conversations, personal interviews, or posts/comments on social media or other sites protected by privacy settings.
- Seek approval from the person communicating with you.
| Reference format | Example |
| Template | Sender. Form Name to/with Name/Author. Day Month Year. |
| Works cited entry |
Gerlich, Erin. Email to Jessica Norton. 9 June 2024. Norton, Jessica. Text to the author. 7 June 2024. |