So You Wanna Cite Walmart.com, MLA Style? You're Not Alone, Buddy.
Let's face it, wading through MLA format feels about as exciting as a lukewarm cup of instant coffee. But fear not, fellow scholar of bargain bins and rollback deals! Today, we're cracking the code on citing the granddaddy of discount retailers, Walmart.com, in all its MLA glory.
Why Cite Walmart.com, You Ask?
Maybe you're writing a groundbreaking thesis on the cultural impact of the "rollback" yellow sign. Perhaps you're delving into the fascinating world of logistics and how they get that giant box of kitty litter to your doorstep. Whatever your reason, here's the lowdown on giving Walmart.com its MLA due.
Step 1: Author, Author, Who Wrote the Website?
This is where things get interesting. Unlike Shakespeare or Stephen King, Walmart.com doesn't exactly have a byline. Don't fret! Since there's no single author, we start with the website itself:
- Walmart.com (Yeah, that's the official title.)
Pro-Tip: If you find a specific page with an author listed (like a blog post), use that name instead.
Step 2: Deciphering the Dewey Decimal System of Discounts
Next, we tackle the date. MLA wants to know when you snagged that info, but Walmart.com isn't exactly forthcoming about when their website content gets updated. Here's the best we can do:
- Include the current date you accessed the website. (Hey, at least you know the prices haven't changed since yesterday!)
Bonus points if you can find a "last updated" date on a specific page.
Step 3: The URL: Friend or Foe?
Here's where things get a little hairy. The entire URL of Walmart.com can be a monster. MLA suggests using a shortened version that still gets the point across.
*Option 1: Use the main website address: https://www.walmart.com/ *Option 2: If citing a specific page, shorten the URL after the main domain (e.g., https://www.walmart.com/cp/electronics/3944 for the electronics page).
Remember: Always double-check your shortened URL to make sure it leads to the right place. Nobody wants to end up at a competitor's website (unless you're comparing prices, in which case, good on you!).
Putting it All Together: The Grand Finale
Now for the moment of truth! Here's your official MLA citation for Walmart.com, ready to impress your professor (or at least get a passing grade):
Walmart.com. Accessed [date you accessed the website].
For a specific page:
"Title of Specific Page." Walmart.com, [date you accessed the website].
Feeling fancy? You can also add a container title if it helps clarify the source (e.g., "Walmart Online Store" or "The Home of Rollback Prices").
You Did It! You MLA'd the Heck Out of Walmart.com!
Now, go forth and conquer your research paper! Remember, MLA might have its quirks, but at least it's easier than wrestling a pallet of bottled water in the self-checkout line.
