How to Cite X in MLA

• Hannah Berry (Ph.D.)
• Published on 12/23/2023

Citing an X post (formerly tweets) follows a specific structure to ensure clarity and accuracy, especially when using the MLA format. In this guide, we will break down the steps with an example and provide additional instances to illustrate the process. To simplify the citation process, consider the use of an MLA citation generator like TypeCite’s citation machine.

• Account Holder: Start with the account holder’s name and X handle in brackets.
• Post Text: Enclose the full text, including hashtags, in double quotations.
• Publisher and Date/Time: Italicize X then provide the date and time of the post.
• URL Inclusion: Conclude with the post’s URL for direct access to the original content.

For accuracy in your citations, use our MLA book citation generator, our MLA webpage citation tool, and ensure proper citation for MLA journals.

CITING AN X POST: STEP BY STEP

To cite an X post, follow this straightforward structure:

STEP 1: IDENTIFY THE ACCOUNT HOLDER

Begin by noting the account holder’s name and their X handle in square brackets, followed by a period. This information is crucial for attribution.

STEP 2: INCLUDE THE TEXT IN QUOTATIONS

Enclose the entire text, including any hashtags, in double quotations. This preserves the original wording and content of the post.

STEP 3: MENTION X AS THE PUBLISHER

Italicize the publisher’s name, which is X in this case, and follow it with a comma. This step ensures that the reader understands the platform where the post  was posted.

STEP 4: SPECIFY THE DATE OF THE POST

Provide the date of the post in day, month, year format. This helps in locating the post within the timeline of the user’s account.

STEP 5: INCLUDE THE TIME OF THE POST

Add the time when the post was posted. This detail can be crucial, especially in the context of rapidly changing events or discussions.

STEP 6: INSERT THE URL

Finish the citation by including the URL of the post. This enables readers to access the original post directly from the source.

Check for Verified Accounts: Ensure that the X account you are citing is verified if possible. Verified accounts are more likely to be authentic and credible sources. Mindful Hashtag Usage: If the post includes hashtags, consider their relevance to your citation. Include them as they appear in the original post to maintain accuracy and context. Consider Retweets and Replies: When citing a post, be aware of any significant interactions such as retweets or replies. While these may not be included in the citation, they can provide context to the original post’s impact and engagement.

Explore our free tool to generate APA citations easily! Use it for APA book citations, APA webpage references, and proper citing of APA journals in the APA format. The tool supports Harvard style citations.

X POST EXAMPLES

Citation	Elon Musk [@elonmusk]. “Launching satellites to create a global internet coverage is our next big step.” X, 23 Dec. 2023, 11:45 a.m., twitter.com/elonmusk/status/987654321?lang=en.
Citation	Greta Thunberg [@GretaThunberg]. “The climate crisis is real, and we need urgent action now.” X, 21 Sep. 2023, 9:30 p.m., twitter.com/gretathunberg/status/876543210?lang=en.
Citation	BookLover24 [@BookLover24]. “Just devoured ‘The Enchanted Forest’ by @AuthorMagic – a mesmerizing blend of fantasy and adventure! 📚 Highly recommend diving into this magical world. #BookRecommendation” X, 23 Dec 2023, 1:30 p.m., twitter.com/BookLover24/status/87654321098765432?lang=en.
Structure	Screen Name [@handle]. “The entire post word-for-word.” X, Day Month Year of Post, Time of Post, URL.