Should I shorten long URLs in MLA citations?
Yes, is the short answer.
Answer
How do I find or create a short URL for my citations?
If your source does not have a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) and you need to use a URL to cite it, there are a few ways to ensure you are copying the correct link:
1) Use the "Get Link" button offered by many of our library resources, like Gale-In Context: Biography (pictured below, boxed in red).
2) Find the "Permalink" or "stable link," listed on the source page of the database, as pictured below on JSTOR (see orange box).
3) Use the MLA Style Guide's advice (linked here) to shorten the URL by removing the protocol (e.g., https://). You may also remove the query string (see link for defin.) for search URLs, only giving the source-specific URL only.
If you are still confused about how to best cite your source, please speak with your teacher or a librarian!
CAUTION: If you enter URLs with a query string (aka really long URLS) into NoodleTools' URL field, NoodleTools will generate an MLA entry with the same URL you entered. NoodleTools does not edit the URL for you. However, in the information drop down for the URL field, NoodleTools gives their recommendations for a URL entry (pictured below): a direct and permanent link that is SHORT.
