Which of the following is correct when using an author’s name in your essay?

use the author’s full name throughout the essay
use the author’s last name when first mentioned and throughout the essay
use the author’s full name when first mentioned in your paper
use the author’s last name when first mentioned in your paper

my answer

use the author’s full name when first mentioned in your paper

That's correct -- and then his/her last name through the rest of the paper.

Your answer is correct! When using an author's name in your essay, it is generally recommended to use the author's full name when first mentioned in your paper. This helps to establish the author's identity and provide clarity for your reader.

To ensure accuracy, you can follow these steps to find the correct way to cite an author's name in your essay:

1. Determine the required citation style: Different academic disciplines and institutions may have specific guidelines for citing sources. Check your assignment instructions or consult a style guide (such as APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) to find the appropriate citation format.

2. Locate the author's name: Look for the author's name in the source material you are citing. This can usually be found near the title of the work, often on the cover page or in the header/footer.

3. Determine the preferred format: Check your citation style guide to see if there are any specific rules for citing an author's name. Some styles may require using the full name, while others may allow using just the last name.

4. Follow the guidelines: Once you have identified the preferred format, use it consistently throughout your essay. If the preferred format is to use the full name when first mentioned, include the author's full name (first name and last name) in your citation. If the preferred format is to use only the last name when first mentioned, include only the author's last name.

Remember, it is always a good idea to double-check your citation style guide for any specific rules or exceptions related to using an author's name in your essay.