What is MLA Style?
MLA Style: General Format
MLA Format Paper Example
Here is an example of the first page of a paper in MLA style (click the image to enlarge):
"Sample Papers in MLA Style." The MLA Style Center, 14 Aug. 2018, https://style.mla.org/sample-papers/.
MLA Format In-Text Citations:
MLA style, like other standardized formats, requires that any mention of another author's work, whether it is a direct quote or a summary/paraphrase of the original, must be properly attributed. This is done with a parenthetical citation at the end of a sentence with the author's name and the associated page number(s).
Examples:
MLA Format Works Cited Page:
The final page of an MLA-formatted paper should be the Works Cited page. This is the page where all of the sources which were cited in the text are listed. The Works Cited should be on a new page, with only Works Cited as the title, centered. The citations all begin with the name of the author of the source (or the editor, or the title if there is no author or editor), and are listed in alphabetical order. After the first line of each citation, all subsequent lines are indented.
To view details for how to cite each type of source on the works cited page, click here for the library's in-depth guide.
MLA Works Cited Page Example
Here is an example of a works cited page in MLA style (click the image to enlarge):
You are almost done with this mini-tutorial and should now have a basic understanding of MLA format. For more comprehensive information, please navigate to the library's citation guide to find useful links on MLA formatting.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact a librarian.
Now let's test your knowledge to see what you've learned from this tutorial with a short quiz:
In which discipline is MLA format typically used?
Which elements of a research paper is MLA formatting applied to?
You only need to include the author’s name and a page number when you are including a direct quote in your paper.
What resource(s) can you consult for guidance on implementing MLA format?
What is the Works Cited page?
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