Are Infographic Titles Italicized?
MLA’s cited guidance distinguishes standalone infographics from infographics contained in larger works. A standalone independent work follows the italicized-title pattern, while contained-work treatment can differ; the guide preserves the article’s eighth-edition scope.
In MLA-style citation, italicize an infographic title when the infographic is treated as a standalone independent work; an infographic contained in another work can require different treatment.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
The MLA Style Center infographic and online-work articles cited here relate to the eighth-edition framework. For strict current MLA compliance, verify the ninth-edition handbook or the house style you are required to follow.
Further guidance
Example
MLA-style invented contrast: *Water Use by Region* can be italicized when the infographic is the independent work; a titled infographic contained inside a larger article may be treated as a smaller work under the applicable MLA rule.
Practical Application
In the cited MLA framework, first classify the infographic as a stand-alone work or as a component contained in another work. A stand-alone independent work follows the italicized-title pattern; contained-work treatment can differ.
Reader Check
Ask whether the infographic itself is the work being cited or whether it is embedded inside an article, webpage, report, or other container. That relationship controls title treatment.
Recommendation
Classify the infographic first. If it functions as a standalone independent work, MLA’s general title rule supports italics; if it is embedded or treated as a work within another work, style it according to that contained-work relationship.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- How do I cite an infographic? (opens in a new tab)Modern Language Association · MLA Style Center guidance on treating infographics as standalone works or works contained in a larger source
- How do I style the title of a work published online? (opens in a new tab)Modern Language Association · Style guidance distinguishing italicized titles of independent works such as movies and television series from quoted episode titles