How to Cite MLA: A Comprehensive Guide for Students
MLA (Modern Language Association) style is widely used in the humanities, particularly in writing essays, research papers, and literary analyses. Knowing how to properly cite sources using MLA style is crucial for avoiding plagiarism and giving credit to the authors whose work you've consulted. This guide breaks down the essentials of MLA citation, helping you navigate the process with ease.
Understanding MLA Citation Basics
The core principle of MLA citation is to provide your reader with enough information to easily locate the sources you've used. This involves two key components:
- In-text citations: Brief references within your paper that point to a more detailed entry in your Works Cited page.
- Works Cited page: A separate page at the end of your paper listing all the sources you cited.
Failing to properly cite your sources, even unintentionally, can lead to serious academic consequences. Let's delve into the specifics.
In-Text Citations: The Heart of MLA Style
In-text citations are concise references placed within your text, usually parenthetically. They typically include the author's last name and page number(s). Here are some examples:
Example 1: Author's name in the sentence:
Smith argues that "the impact of social media is undeniable" (12).
Example 2: Author's name not in the sentence:
The impact of social media is undeniable ("Social Media's Impact" 12).
Example 3: Multiple authors:
As Jones and Brown note, the results were inconclusive (15). (For three or more authors, use the first author's last name followed by "et al." )
Example 4: No author:
The study emphasizes the need for further research ("The Importance of…" 25). (Use a shortened title in place of the author's name).
Example 5: Electronic Sources: Electronic sources often lack page numbers. In these cases, you can use paragraph numbers (para. 3) or section headings if available. If neither is available, omit the page/paragraph number.
Crafting Your Works Cited Page: A Detailed Guide
The Works Cited page appears at the end of your paper on a separate page. It lists all sources cited in alphabetical order by the author's last name (or title if no author is listed). Each entry follows a specific format, depending on the source type.
Common Source Types and Their MLA Format
Here are some examples of the most frequently used source types and their corresponding MLA formats. Remember to replace the bracketed information with your specific source details.
1. Book:
Author's Last Name, Author's First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Year.
Example:
Smith, John. The History of Social Media. Oxford University Press, 2023.
2. Journal Article:
Author's Last Name, Author's First Name. "Title of Article." Title of Journal, Vol. number, Issue number, Year, pages. DOI or URL.
Example:
Doe, Jane. "The Effects of Social Media on Teenagers." Journal of Adolescent Research, vol. 15, no. 2, 2022, pp. 123-145. https://doi.org/10.1000/example
3. Website:
Author's Last Name, Author's First Name (if available). "Title of Page." Title of Website, Publisher, Date of Publication (if available), URL.
Example:
Smith, John. "Social Media Trends." Pew Research Center, Pew Research Center, 2024, www.pewresearch.org/example.
4. Video:
Creator. Title of Video. Platform, Date of Publication, URL.
Example:
National Geographic. The Impact of Social Media. YouTube, 15 May 2024, www.youtube.com/example
Note: There are specific formats for other source types such as interviews, podcasts, and e-books. Consult the official MLA Handbook for detailed guidance on less common source types.
Mastering MLA: Resources and Further Learning
This guide provides a foundation for understanding MLA citation. For comprehensive and up-to-date information, refer to the official MLA Handbook or online resources provided by reputable academic institutions. Consistent practice and careful attention to detail are key to mastering MLA citation. Remember, accurate citation is not just about avoiding plagiarism; it's about demonstrating academic integrity and contributing to the scholarly conversation.
