How do I cite a commercial?

Note: This post relates to content in the eighth edition of the MLA Handbook. For up-to-date guidance, see the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook.

How you cite a commercial depends on where you found it. As always, follow the MLA format template.

Let’s say you are citing a commercial you saw on television. Begin with a description of the commercial in the Title of Source element, then list the television station where it appeared in the Title of Container element, followed by the date:

GE refrigerator commercial. CBS, 10 Oct. 2019.

If, however, you watched the commercial on a website such as YouTube, provide the publication details for the version on the site. To see examples, read our post on works uploaded to video sharing sites.