mla formatting for essays

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The MLA Style Center

What is mla style.

Building confidence in the information and ideas we share with one another is perhaps more important today than ever before, and for nearly a century it has been the driving principle behind MLA style, a set of standards for writing and documentation used by writers to find and evaluate information, alert their audience to the trustworthiness of their findings through citation, and shape the expression of their ideas in conversation with others. 

Resources for MLA Style

Our new, subscription-based digital platform, MLA Handbook Plus is

• Trusted: The only authorized subscription-based digital resource featuring the latest edition of the MLA Handbook is available for unlimited simultaneous users.
• Evolving: Get the same content as the print edition, plus seamless annual updates and forthcoming additional resources such as videos and companion titles.
• Dynamic: Features an easy-to-search interface, cross-linking of related material, and a split view that lets students see illustrations while reading corresponding content.
• Flexible: Whether on campus, at home, or in a coffee shop, students can access the platform from anywhere—perfect for remote or hybrid learning environments.
• Affordable: Tiered pricing model based on full-time undergraduate enrollments in US higher education institutions (with custom pricing options for secondary schools, consortia, international schools, campus systems, and other organizations).
• Accessible: Meets current accessibility standards—ensuring that learning MLA style is available to all.

Contact [email protected] for more info.

MLA Handbook , 9th Edition

The ninth edition of the MLA Handbook , published in spring 2021, builds on the MLA's unique approach to documenting sources using a template of core elements—facts common to most sources, like author, title, and publication date—that allows writers to cite any type of work, from books, e-books, and journal articles in databases to song lyrics, online images, social media posts, dissertations, and more. With this focus on source evaluation as the cornerstone of citation, MLA style promotes the skills of information and digital literacy so crucial today. The new edition offers

• New chapters on grammar, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, numbers, italics, abbreviations, and principles of inclusive language
• Guidelines on setting up research papers in MLA format with updated advice on headings, lists, and title pages for group projects
• Revised, comprehensive, step-by-step instructions for creating a list of works cited in MLA format that are easier to learn and use than ever before
• A new appendix with hundreds of example works-cited-list entries by publication format, including websites, YouTube videos, interviews, and more
• Detailed examples of how to find publication information for a variety of sources
• Newly revised explanations of in-text citations, including comprehensive advice on how to cite multiple authors of a single work
• Detailed guidance on using notes in MLA style
• Instructions on quoting, paraphrasing, summarizing, and avoiding plagiarism
• Annotated bibliography examples
• Numbered sections throughout for quick navigation
• Advanced tips for professional writers and scholars

The MLA Style Center offers free online resources on MLA style, including an interactive MLA format template, answers to common questions on Ask the MLA, advice from the MLA editors, and more. Get updates by signing up for The Source newsletter, and follow us on Twitter @MLAstyle .

MLA 9th Edition Formatting

A Simple, Step-by-Step Guide + Free Template

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewer: Eunice Rautenbach (DTech) | July 2023

Formatting your paper in MLA style can feel like a pretty daunting task . In this post, we’ll show you exactly how to set up your paper for MLA (9th edition), as quickly and easily as possible. We’ll also share our popular free MLA template , to help you fast-track your writing.

Overview: MLA 9th Edition Formatting

• Structure and layout
• General page setup
• The opening section
• The main body
• Works cited (reference list)
• Free MLA 9 template

MLA Structure and Layout

Let’s start by looking at the overall structure of a typical student paper formatted for MLA 9th edition, before diving into the details of each section. For the most part, MLA papers follow a standardised structure, consisting of the following parts:

The opening section : While MLA doesn’t require a dedicated title page (unlike APA ), it does require an opening section that details some important information about yourself, your university and the paper itself.

The main body : The main body begins directly after the opening section on the first page. This is the “heart” of your paper and there are a very specific requirements regarding how you present and format this content.

The appendix (or appendices):  While using an appendix in a student paper is relatively uncommon, you’ll place this section directly after the main body section, if required by your university.

The “Works Cited” list : This section is equivalent to what we’d usually call a references page and it’s where you’ll detail all the reference information corresponding to the in-text citations in the main body of your paper.

These four sections form the standard structure and order of a student paper using MLA 9th edition. As we mentioned, not all sections are always required , so be sure to double check what your university expects from you before submitting. Also, it’s always a good idea to ask your university if they have any  style requirements in addition to the standard MLA specification.

Now that we’ve got a big-picture view of the typical paper structure, let’s look at the specific formatting requirements for each of these sections.

Generic Page Setup

Before you jump into writing up your paper, you’ll first need to set up your document to align with MLA’s generic page requirements. Alternatively, you can download our MLA paper template (which comes fully preformatted).

MLA 9th edition requires a 1-inch margin on all sides , for all pages. That said, if you’re writing a dissertation, thesis or any document that will ultimately be printed and bound, your university will likely require a larger left margin to accommodate for physical binding.

Fonts & sizing

MLA does not require that you use any specific font, but we do recommend sticking to the tried and tested , well-accepted fonts. For example, you might consider using one of the following:

• Sans serif fonts : Calibri (11), Arial (11), or Lucida Sans Unicode (10)
• Serif fonts : Times New Roman (12), Georgia (11), or Computer Modern (10)

Whichever font you opt for, be sure to use it consistently throughout your paper . Don’t chop and change, or use different fonts for different parts of the document (e.g., different fonts for the body text and the headings). Also, keep in mind that while MLA does not have a specific font requirement, your university may have its own preference or requirement. So, be sure to check with them beforehand regarding any additional specifications they may have.

In general, all text throughout your document needs to be left-aligned and should not be justified (i.e., leave an uneven right edge). You might consider using a different alignment for section headings, but in general, it’s best to keep things simple .

Line spacing

MLA 9th edition requires double line spacing throughout the document . There should also be no extra space before and after paragraphs . This applies to all sections of the paper, including the “Works Cited” page (more on this later).

Page header

Last but not least, you’ll need to set up a running header for your document. This should contain your last name, followed by the page number. Both of these should be positioned in the top right corner of all pages (even the first page). On a related note, there’s no need for you to include any footer content unless your university specifically requests it.

Now that we’ve looked at the generic formatting considerations, let’s dive into the specific requirements for each section of your paper.

The Opening Section

While MLA-formatted papers typically don’t require a title page, there are very specific requirements regarding the opening section of the first page .

Here’s how you can set your first page up for MLA 9th edition.

• On the first line, write your full name (flush left)
• On a new line, write your professor or instructor’s full name
• On a new line, write the course code and course name
• On a new line, write the full date spelt out (e.g., 15 June 2023)
• On a new line, write the full title of your paper , centre-aligned and using title case (consider using a title case converter if you’re not familiar with this)
• On a new line, begin your body content

All of the above should be in plain, unformatted font – in other words, you don’t need to apply any boldfacing, underlining , etc. That said, you should use italics whenever you’re writing out the titles of other works (for example, titles of books or articles).

To make it all a little more tangible, below is an example of a first page formatted according to the MLA specifications that we just covered.

The Main Body

While the formatting requirements for the body section are relatively light for MLA (at least when compared to APA ), there are still quite a few important things to pay attention to. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Each of your paragraphs needs to start on a new line , and the first sentence of each paragraph requires a half-inch indent (while the rest of the paragraph is flush left aligned). Note that each paragraph simply starts on a new line and doesn’t require an additional blank line.

MLA 9th edition is fairly flexible in terms of heading formatting. There is no specified formatting, so you can decide what works best for you. However, there are still a few basic rules you need to follow:

• All your headings should be written in title case – never use all caps
• There should be no period following a heading
• Each heading level needs to be uniquely formatted and easily distinguishable from other levels (for example, a distinct difference in terms of boldfacing, underlining or italicisation)
• You can have as many heading levels as you need, but each level must have at least two instances

Abbreviations

When using abbreviations, you’ll need to make sure that you’re using the MLA version of the abbreviation . Below we’ve listed a few common ones you should be aware of:

• Appendix: app.
• Circa: c. or ca.
• Chapter: ch.
• Column: col.
• Definition: def.
• Department: dept.
• Example: e.g.
• Edition: ed.
• Figure: fig.
• Foreword: fwd.
• That is: i.e.
• Journal: jour.
• Library: lib.
• Manuscript(s): MS
• Number: no.
• Quoted in: qtd. in
• Revised: rev.
• Section: sec. or sect.
• Series: ser.
• Translation: trans.
• Version: vers.
• Variant: var.
• Volume: vol.

If you’re interested, you can find a more comprehensive list here . Alternatively, if you have access to the MLA 9th edition handbook, you can find the full list in the first appendix.

In-text citations

MLA 9 has a very specific set of requirements regarding how to cite your sources within the body of your paper. Here are some of the most important things to help you get started with MLA citations.

Author-page number system: in-text citations consist of (at a minimum) the lead author’s last name, followed by the page number of the paragraph you are citing. There is no comma between the two components (only a space).

Types of citations: MLA allows two types of in-text citations: parenthetical and narrative . Parenthetical citations feature the author and page number in parentheses (brackets) at the end of the respective sentence. Here’s an example:

MLA 9th edition is easy to grasp if you visit the Grad Coach blog (Jansen 13).

Narrative citations, on the other hand, weave the author’s name into the flow of the sentence and then present the publication date in parentheses at the end of the sentence. Here’s an example:

Jansen states that MLA 9th edition is easy for students to grasp if they visit the Grad Coach blog (13).

In general, it’s a good idea to utilise a mix of both in your writing. Narrative citations are particularly useful when you want to highlight or contrast authors or their viewpoints, while parenthetical citations are useful when you want to strengthen your own academic voice. In other words, both formats have their respective strengths and weaknesses, so try to use citation format strategically in your writing.

Quotations: when quoting text verbatim from a source, there is no need to do anything differently in terms of the citation itself, but do remember to wrap the verbatim text in quotation marks. Here’s an example:

Jansen proposes that MLA 9th edition is “easy to grasp if you visit the Grad Coach blog” (13).

Multiple authors: when citing resources that were authored by three or more people, you only need to list the lead author, followed by “et al.”. Here’s an example:

MLA 9th edition is easy to grasp if you visit the Grad Coach blog (Jansen et al. 13).

 Below are a few more examples from our free MLA template .

Please keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list of all the MLA 9th edition citation-related requirements – just a shortlist of the most commonly relevant ones. If you’d like to learn more, consult the MLA handbook .

The Works Cited (Reference List)

The final section that you’ll need to pay close attention to is the “Works Cited” page, which should contain a list of reference information for all the sources cited in the body of the paper. Again, MLA has a quite a meaty set of specifications regarding the content and formatting of this list, but we’ll cover the basics here to get your started on the right foot. 

Basic setup

Your reference list needs to start on a new page and should be titled “Works Cited”. The title should be unformatted and centred . The reference list should then start on the next line. As with the rest of your document, you should use double line spacing throughout.

When it comes to the reference list itself, you’ll need to keep the following in mind:

• All the sources that you cited in the body of your document should feature in the reference list. Make sure that every citation is accounted for .
• The references should be ordered alphabetically , according to the lead author’s last name .
• The exact information required within each entry depends on the type of content being referenced (e.g., a journal article, web page, etc.)
• Components that may need to feature (other than the author) include the title of the source, the title of the container, other contributors, the article version or number, the publisher, the publication date, and the location.
• All references should be left-aligned and should use a hanging indent – i.e., the second line of any given reference (if it has one) should be indented a half inch.

We have to stress that these are just the basics. MLA 9th edition requires that your references be structured and formatted in a very specific way , depending on the type of resource. If you plan to draft your reference list manually, it’s important to consult your university’s style guide or the MLA manual itself. This leads us to our next point…

In general, it’s a bad idea to write your reference list manually . Given the incredibly high level of intricacy involved, it’s highly likely that you’ll make mistakes if you try to craft this section yourself. A better solution is to use (free) reference management software such as Mendeley or Zotero . Either of these will take care of the formatting and content for you, and they’ll do a much more accurate job of it too. 

If you’re not familiar with any sort of reference management software, be sure to check out our easy-to-follow Mendeley explainer video below.

Wrapping Up

In this post, we’ve provided a primer covering how to format your paper according to MLA 9th edition. To recap, we’ve looked at the following:

• The structure and layout
• The general page setup
• The “Works Cited” page (reference list)

Remember to always check your university’s style guide to familiarise yourself with any additional requirements they may. Also, if your university has specified anything that contrasts what we’ve discussed here, please do follow their guidance . 

If you need any help formatting your paper for MLA 9, take a look at our “done for you” language editing and proofreading service . Simply send us your document and we’ll take care of all the MLA formatting intracies on your behalf. 

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MLA Style Guide, 8th & 9th Editions: Formatting Your MLA Paper

• Works Cited entries: What to Include
• Title of source
• Title of container
• Contributors
• Publication date
• Supplemental Elements
• Book with Personal Author(s)
• Book with Organization as Author
• Book with Editor(s)
• Parts of Books
• Government Publication
• Journal Article
• Magazine Article
• Multivolume Works
• Newspaper Article
• Other Formats
• Websites, Social Media, and Email
• About In-text Citations
• In-text Examples
• How to Paraphrase and Quote
• Citing Poetry
• Formatting Your MLA Paper
• Formatting Your Works Cited List
• MLA Annotated Bibliography
• MLA 9th Edition Quick Guide
• Submit Your Paper for MLA Style Review

MLA recommends using 12-point Times New Roman font or another readable typeface (e.g. serif ).

Line Spacing & Margins

Use double-spacing throughout the entire paper.

Leave 1 inch margins on the top, bottom, and each side.

Indent the first line of each paragraph half an inch from the left margin.

Quotes longer than 4 lines should be written as a block of text a half an inch from the left margin.

Heading and Title

An MLA research paper does not need a title page, but your instructor may require one. If no instructions are given, follow the MLA guidelines below:

Type the following one inch from the top of the first page, flush with the left margin (double spacing throughout).

Your Instructor's Name

Course Number or Name

Center the title on the next line. Follow the rules for capitalization. Do not italicize, underline, or bold the title. An exception is when your title includes a title.  Example:  The Attitude toward Violence in A Clockwork Orange

Indent the next line and begin typing your text.

Include your last name and page numbers in the upper right-hand corner of every page. The page numbers will be one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. If your instructor prefers no page number on the first page, begin numbering from 2 on the second page.

Sample Papers from MLA

There are sample papers available in the MLA Style Center. Check them out to see the correct formatting.

Styling Headings and Subheadings

According to the MLA Style Center website, writers should avoid using headings in shorter papers. If you are writing a longer research paper, you may want to include headings and subheadings to help organize the sections of your paper. Advice from the MLA Style Center :

"Levels

The paper or chapter title is the first level of heading, and it must be the most prominent.

Headings should be styled in descending order of prominence. After the first level, the other headings are subheadings—that is, they are subordinate. Font styling and size are used to signal prominence. In general, a boldface, larger font indicates prominence; a smaller font, italics, and lack of bold can be used to signal subordination. For readability, don’t go overboard: avoid using all capital letters for headings (in some cases, small capitals may be acceptable):

Heading Level 1

Heading Level 2

Heading Level 3

Note that word-processing software often has built-in heading styles.

Consistency

Consistency in the styling of headings and subheadings is key to signaling to readers the structure of a research project. That is, each level 1 heading should appear in the same style and size, as should each level 2 heading, and so on. Generally, avoid numbers and letters to designate heads unless you are working in a discipline where doing so is conventional. Note that a heading labeled “1” requires a subsequent heading labeled “2,” and a heading labeled “a” requires a subsequent heading labeled “b.” 

In a project that is not professionally designed and published, headings should be flush with the left margin, to avoid confusion with block quotations. (The exception is the paper or chapter title, which is centered in MLA style.)

For readability, it is helpful to include a line space above and below a heading, as shown in this post.

No internal heading level should have only one instance. For example, if you have one level 1 heading, you need to have a second level 1 heading. (The exceptions are the paper or chapter title and the headings for notes and the list of works cited.) You should also generally have text under each heading.

Capitalization

Capitalize headings like the titles of works, as explained in section 1.2 of the MLA Handbook.

The shorter, the better."

Modern Language Association. "How Do I Style Headings and Subheadings in a Research Paper?" MLA Style Center., 13 December 2018,  style.mla.org/styling-headings-and-subheadings .

MLA Style Paper Template

• MLA 9th Edition Paper Template This template was created and saved as a Word template for Microsoft Word 2016. The process for saving and using the template is the same for the instructions given above for 2013.

You can save a personal template in Microsoft Word (IRSC students, download Office for free, see a librarian if you need help). Above is a template you can use every time you need to set-up a research paper using MLA style format. Simply open the template and type your own information every time you need to write an MLA style paper. Microsoft Word will allow you to save personal templates. Once you have the template opened in Word

Click "Save as"

Give the file a name

Under "Save as type", select Word Template

Then when you open Word, you will be able to choose a template rather than a blank document. You might have to select Personal to find your template.

Sample MLA Paper

How to Use the MLA Style Template

Formatting Group Project Papers

For a research paper written collaboratively by several students, such as for a group project, create a title page instead of listing all authors in the header on page 1 of the essay. On the title page, list each student's full name, placing one name on each double-spaced line. After the final student name, enter the professor's name. After the professor's name, give the course name. The last line of the heading will be the date in 5 August 2021 format. Press Enter a few times to move down the page then give the paper title, centered.

• << Previous: Citing Poetry
• Next: Formatting Your Works Cited List >>
• Last Updated: May 21, 2024 5:26 PM
• URL: https://irsc.libguides.com/mla

MLA Format Guide - 9th edition

• Essay Formatting

How to Create a Header

• To add your header, either double-click in the top inch of the page or select the "Insert" tab in Microsoft Word, navigate to the "Header & Footer" section, select "Header," and click the first option titled "Blank."
• When editing your header, navigate to the "Design" tab and check the box beside "Different First Page" as every heading after your first page should only include the page number. 
• Still in the design tab under the "Header & Footer" section, select "Page Number." In the drop-down box, select the first option, labeled "Top of Page," then select the third option labeled "Plain Number 3." Add your last name in front of the page number, and change the font settings to match that of the rest of your paper.
• On the next line, set the text alignment to align your text to the left side of the page (under the "Paragraph" section of the "Home" tab) and on four different lines type your first and last name, your instructor's name, the course the assignment is for, and the date in the format DD Month YYYY.
• On the next line, center the text (under the "Paragraph" section of the "Home" tab) and type the title of your paper.

An example of an MLA formatted header is included below.

How to Create a Works Cited Page

You can create your Works Cited page before, during, or after you write your essay. If you do not create it before, be sure to document the sources you used, including any website links, so you can go back and create your citations later. Citation format will be discussed in a later section, but this section will detail how to create a Works Cited Page.

• At the end of your essay, insert a page break (found under the "Insert" tab) and center the words "Works Cited" at the top of your page (not in the header). If there is only one source being cited, type "Work Cited".
• Insert your citations in alphabetical order in the subsequent lines. Make sure they are left aligned.
• If your citation is more than one line, apply the hanging indent feature to everything after the first line for each individual entry. You can do this by selecting the second line of the entry, navigating to the "Home" tab in Microsoft Word, selecting the arrow at the bottom right in the "Paragraph" section to open up the "Paragraph Settings" box, and under the "Indentation" section, select the drop-down box labeled "Special," and choose "Hanging". This will move everything but the first line of your citation slightly to the right.

Other essay formatting notes

When formatting your essay, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Use the correct font as listed under the "Home" tab of this guide. Double-space your text, use 12 pt font, and use a legible font style, such as Times New Roman, Ariel, Calibri, etc., ensuring that the regular and italic font styles are distinct.
• After the first page, only include your last name and the page number in the top right corner of the header.
• Change the paragraph options to remove space before and after all paragraphs. Select the entire essay (you can use the Ctrl + A feature), and in the "Paragraph" section of the "Home" tab, select the drop-down arrow where you can adjust the line spacing and make sure both selections at the bottom of the drop-down box read "Add Space Before Paragraph" and "Add Space After Paragraph". If they say "Remove Space Before Paragraph" and/or "Remove Space After Paragraph," click to remove the space.
• On the last page, include a Works Cited page with your citations listed in alphabetical order.
• Last Updated: Oct 13, 2023 9:40 AM
• URL: https://uaccm.libguides.com/what_is_MLA_style

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• Writing Tips

What Is the MLA Format for an Essay?

4-minute read

• 12th October 2023

When writing academic essays, adhering to the proper formatting guidelines is crucial. One of the most widely used styles for academic writing is the Modern Language Association (MLA) format. However, MLA is more than just providing in-text citations and a Works Cited page . If you’re curious, read on.

Today’s post will explore:

●  What MLA format is.

●  Why it is important.

●  How to correctly format essays in MLA style .

What Is MLA Format?

MLA format is a set of guidelines established by the Modern Language Association for writing and documenting research papers, essays, and scholarly articles. These guidelines provide a standardized way to structure and format academic writing, making it easier for readers to understand and engage with the content.

Why Is MLA Format Important?

 MLA format serves several important purposes in academic writing:

1. Clarity and Readability

Thanks to its standardized layout and citation style, MLA ensures your essay is easy to read and comprehend.

2. Academic Integrity

Properly citing sources demonstrates academic integrity by giving credit to the original authors and avoiding plagiarism .

3. Consistency

MLA provides a consistent and uniform structure for essays, making it easier for readers and instructors to navigate your work.

 4. Publication Standards

Many academic journals and publishers require submissions to follow MLA guidelines, making it crucial for researchers and authors.

How to Format Your Essay in MLA Style

Now, let’s go through step-by-step instructions to help you correctly format your essay.

1. Margins and Page Layout

●  Go to the Page Layout settings in your word processor and set one-inch margins on all sides of the paper.

●  Set the text to be left-aligned.

●  Choose a legible 12-point font (e.g., Times New Roman or Arial).

2. Create a Title Page

●  Include your name, instructor’s name, course title, and the date in the upper left-hand corner.

●  Center the title of your essay, using standard capitalization (no bold, italics, or underlining).

3. Insert Header and Page Numbers

●  Create a header in the upper right-hand corner with your last name and page number (e.g., Jones 1).

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4. Use Proper Line Spacing

●  Use double-spacing throughout the entire essay, including the Works Cited page.

5. In-Text Citations

●  Cite sources within your essay using parenthetical citations (author’s last name and page number).

Example: We have no time to appreciate the finer things in life (Toldo 201)

●  Include a Works Cited page with full bibliographic details for all cited sources.

●  Ensure that in-text citations correspond to entries in the Works Cited page.

6. Works Cited Page

●  You must start the list with the title Works Cited.

●  List all sources used in alphabetical order by the author’s last name.

●  Follow a specific format for different types of sources (books, journal articles, websites, etc.).

MLA format is essential to academic writing, ensuring clarity, consistency, and proper citation of sources. As MLA is a widely used style, you’ll have a few essays during your undergraduate years that will require you to adhere to its standards. You can confidently format your essays in MLA style, impressing your professors and maintaining academic integrity by following our guidelines in this post.

We strongly recommend proofreading your essay once it’s finished. Proofreading can be challenging, so we recommend asking our proofreading experts to review your writing . They’ll ensure perfect grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Additionally, they can check that your essay adheres to MLA standards. Consider submitting a 500-word document for free!

Happy learning and happy writing!

1. Is MLA the same as APA or Chicago Turabian?

No! MLA formatting is different from other referencing styles such as APA and Chicago Turabian. If you’re used to using APA or Chicago, you’ll have to familiarize yourself with MLA.

2. Will failing to adhere to MLA affect my essay’s grade?

If your essay is required to be in MLA format, it must adhere to the standards. You can expect the professor to deduct marks for failing to adhere to MLA.

3. Can I write References or Reference List instead of Works Cited?

The title for the list of references must be Works Cited. Again, you could lose marks for deviating from the required title.

4. How will I know if my essay needs to be in MLA?

The essay rubric will usually state the required referencing style. Otherwise, we recommend checking with your professor.

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Writing Academic Essays: Tips and Support: MLA Help, Grammar and Writing

• Informative Process Analysis
• Cause and Effect Essay
• Compare and Contrast Essay
• Argumentative Essay
• Newspapers, Databases & Articles
• MLA Help, Grammar and Writing

MLA Handout

• MLA Formatting Handout

Tables & Graphs in your paper

Visuals such as graphs and tables should used to assist in communication, not take up space in order to meet minimum page requirements. Use them carefully and wisely. A  good discussion and excellent samples  can be located at the OWL website.

MLA in Word 2007

In Text Citations Demo

In-Text Citations

MLA uses the author-page method of citation. The last name of the author and the page number(s) from which the quotation or paraphrase is taken are placed in parenthesis and inserted in the appropriate place.

When referencing or summarizing an entire source, mention the author name and title in the body of your text. When quoting, paraphrasing, or summarizing a particular passage or idea of the original source, include the author name and page number in the parenthetical citation. However, if you mention the author's name in your text, include page number(s) only.

If a direct quote is fewer than four lines, infuse it into your own text and use quotation marks . 

However, if a direct quote exceeds four lines, make the quotation a free-standing indented  block quote  and DO NOT use quotation marks. 

End notes & MLA

If you have any endnotes , include them on a separate page before your Works Cited page . Entitle the section Notes (centered, unformatted).

General Formatting

Basic guidelines for formatting a paper accorind to the  mla style., general guidelines.

• Always follow your instructor's guidelines - they may vary somewhat from the general guidelines
• Your paper should be printed on white 8.5 x 11-inch paper.
• Double-space the text of your paper
• Use a legible font (e.g. Times New Roman). 
• Font size should be 12 pt., unless your professor says otherwise.
• Margins of the document should be 1 inch on all sides, which is the default in most word processing programs.
• Leave only one space after periods or other punctuation marks.
• Indent the first line of paragraphs one half-inch from the left margin. Use the Tab key not the Space Bar.
• Create a header that numbers all pages consecutively in the upper right-hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin.

Useful Websites

• MLA Handbook website
• OWL: Online Writing Lab @ Purdue
• << Previous: Newspapers, Databases & Articles
• Last Updated: May 28, 2024 4:38 PM
• URL: https://slulibrary.saintleo.edu/essays_writing

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MLA Works Cited Page: Format, Template & Examples

The Works Cited page is a part of research papers written in the Modern Language Association (MLA) format where all sources used by the author are listed. While writing research papers, authors may consult several sources and use their data or paraphrase parts of the original text. It is essential to give due credit to the used sources and cite them appropriately to avoid plagiarism. This list of sources offers an easy reference for readers who may want to refer to the original source for their own research.  

A well-formatted and accurate Works Cited page can provide readers with specific details to help them access that source. For example, for a journal article, in addition to basic details like author name, title, journal name, etc., the MLA Works Cited page also provides the volume and issue numbers, page numbers, publisher, etc. A Works Cited page gives credibility to the research paper, proving that the information published is accurate and backed by evidence. 

This article describes the template of an MLA Works Cited page along with examples and suggests steps to ensure accurate formatting of all entries. 

Table of Contents

• What is a Works Cited Page? 
• Basic Rules for an MLA Works Cited Page 
• Online journal article with DOI or URL 
• Online newspaper article 
• E-book 
• Specific type of e-book (Kindle, Nook) 
• Print book 
• Chapter in edited book 
• Web page with an author 
• Web page with no author 
• Web page with no author or organization 
• Blog post 
• Video 
• YouTube video 
• Image 
• Conference paper presentation 
• Dissertation from a database 
• Twitter (now X) posts 
• Format of an MLA Works Cited Page 
• Formatting Headings and Citation Titles on an MLA Works Cited Page 
• Single author 
• Two authors 
• Three or more authors 
• General rules 
• Key Takeaways 
• Frequently Asked Questions 

What is a Works Cited Page?

The MLA Works Cited page 1 lists all the sources used while writing research papers. This page is always the last one after the main content. A Works Cited page uses the official MLA format and has similar content as reference lists used by other styles such as the Chicago Manual of Style (Chicago style), the American Psychological Association (APA), and the American Medical Association (AMA). Each style uses a different format, emphasizing different elements. 

The Works Cited page helps avoid plagiarism by crediting the sources and allows readers to quickly locate the sources. Papers in MLA format should always have a Works Cited page and each entry on this page should be cited in the text at the corresponding location. 

Basic Rules for an MLA Works Cited Page

Here are some basic rules for writing the MLA Works Cited page: 2  

• Start your Works Cited list on a fresh page at the end of your paper, with the same formatting as other sections, such as one-inch margins, last name, page number, and header. 
• Align the title, “Works Cited,” at the top center. Don’t use italicization, boldfacing, quotation marks, or all-caps to highlight the title. 
• Left align the citations and arrange them alphabetically by authors’ last names. If author names are unavailable, arrange by the first letter in the title (other than A, An, or The). 
• Do not use serial numbering or bullets to list the entries. 
• Double space all citations. 
• Indent the second and subsequent lines of citations by 0.5 inches to create a hanging indent (Figure 1). 

• List page numbers of the sources correctly. If only one page of a print source is used, use the abbreviation “p.” before the page number (e.g., p. 232). If a page range is used, use “pp.” (e.g., pp. 232-38). 
• For online sources, include a location, like a URL or a digital object identifier (DOI). Delete “http://” from URLs. The DOI or URL is usually the last element in a citation. 
• End all entries with a period. 

Citing Sources in MLA

A citation in an MLA Works Cited page requires the following core elements. These elements should be written in the order given below, followed by the punctuation mark shown unless the particular element is the final element of the entry, in which case, it should end with a period. 4,5  

• Author’s name
• Title of source
• Title of the container, (a container is the larger publication in which the text is published. For example, if citing an article from a journal, the journal is the container) 
• Other editors, translators, contributors
• Publication date
• Location (page numbers in print versions; DOI or URL in online versions) 

A few optional elements can be included, if available: 

• Date of access (the date you last accessed the online source) 
• Date of original publication 
• Format of media source 

All style guides have their own specific formats for writing different sources in a reference list—journal articles, printed and digital books, videos, websites, etc. The MLA-style format for different types of sources is listed below: 4

Online journal article with DOI or URL

Author’s last name, First name. “Title of Article.” Title of Journal , vol., no. (issue), date of publication, pp. (if available). Database Name , DOI or URL. 

Online newspaper article

Author’s last name, First name. “Title of Article.” Name of Newspaper , Publication Date, p. (if available), URL. Access date. 

Author’s last name, First name. Title of Book . E-book, publisher, publication year, DOI or URL (if available). 

Specific type of e-book (Kindle, Nook)

Author’s last name, First name. Title of Book , editor or translator (if necessary), (Kindle/Nook) ed., publisher, year. 

Author’s last name, First name. Title of Book . City*, Publisher, Publication Date. 

*City is cited only if the book is published before 1900 or if the publisher has multiple offices worldwide. 

Chapter in edited book

Author’s last name, First name. Title of Book . Edited by FirstName LastName, publisher, year, page range of chapter. 

Web page with an author

Author’s last name, First name. “Title of Webpage.” Title of Website , URL. Access date. 

Web page with no author

“Title of Article.” Title of Website , date of publication, URL. Access date. 

Web page with no author or organization

“Title of Webpage.” Title of Website (if different), publication year, URL. Access date. 

Author’s last name, First Name (or, in some cases, screen name, editor, etc.). “Title of Post.” Name of Website , version or date of post, name of organization (if different), URL. Access date. 

Title of Motion Picture/Film . Directed by First Name Last Name, performances by First Name Last Name, Studio Name, Year. Access date, Media format. 

Last Name, First Name, director/writer/producer. Title of Motion Picture/Film . Studio, Year. Access date, Media format. 

YouTube video

If author is different from the uploader: 

Author Last Name, First Name. “Title of Video.” YouTube , uploaded by [Screen name], date, URL. Access date, Media format. 

If author and uploader are the same OR if there is no clear author: 

“Title of Video.” YouTube , uploaded by [Screen name], date, URL. Access date, Media format. 

Artist’s Last Name, First Name. Title of Image , date of creation, institution, city. Name of web site , URL. 

Title of Piece . Date of creation. Name of Website , URL. 

Conference paper presentation

Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Conference Paper Title.” Conference Title that Includes Date and Location , edited by Conference Editor(s). Publisher. Date of Publication. 

Dissertation from a database

Author’s Last Name, First Name. Title of Dissertation (Doctoral dissertation) . Database name, date of publication, URL (if available). 

Twitter (now X) posts

Twitter Handle (First Name Last Name if Known). “The entire tweet word-for-word.”  Twitter , Day Month Year of Tweet, Time of Tweet, URL. 

Format of an MLA Works Cited Page

Here’s a list of steps for formatting the MLA Works Cited page:

• Place one-inch margins around the entire document except for the “running head.” In the page setup settings, you can view and modify the margin size. 
• Double space the entire page using the “Line spacing” or “Paragraph spacing” options in your word processing program. 
• Organize the Works Cited entries in either alphabetical (by author name or title) or non-alphabetical order. 1,2

Example: 

Benjamin, Chloe. The Immortalists . Penguin, 2018. 

Black Panther . Directed by Ryan Coogler, performance by Chadwick Boseman, Marvel Studios, 2018. 

Egan, Jennifer. Manhattan Beach . Scribner, 2017. 

Formatting Headings and Citation Titles on an MLA Works Cited Page

The following points outline the basic format for headings and titles used on a Works Cited page. 1 The running head is at the top right corner of every page of the document. It displays the last name of the author and the page number (e.g., Letterman 6). 

• The running head should be placed half an inch from the top of the page and along the right side’s one-inch margin. 
• The page title (Work/Works Cited) should be written below the running head.  
• No center alignment 
• No boldfacing, italicization, or underlining 
• Same font size (12 point) and type as the entire document 
• Separated by a double space from the first citation on the page 

Consider the following rules while formatting source titles: 1,5,7,8  

• List the full title as the original source and use title case (capitalize all principal words, except articles [a, an, the], prepositions, or coordinating conjunctions [and, for, but, or, so, nor, yet] when in the middle of the title). 

Examples:  

The Code of the Exiled, Wizard of Oz, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire  

Cheyfitz, Eric. The Poetics of Imperialism: Translation and Colonization from The Tempest to Tarzan. Expanded ed., U of Pennsylvania P, 1997. 

• Separate the subtitle from the title with a colon and space. 

Goldman, Anne. “Questions of Transport: Reading Primo Levi Reading Dante.” The Georgia Review , vol. 64, no. 1, 2010, pp. 69-88. 

• Italicize titles if the source is self-contained and independent, e.g., titles of books, plays, films, periodicals, journals, magazines, databases, and websites. 

Example: Salinger, J. D. The Catcher in the Rye . Little Brown, 1991. 

• Enclose titles in quotation marks if the source is part of a larger work, e.g., articles, essays, chapters, poems, short stories, webpages, songs, television episodes, and speeches. 
• Titles beginning with numbers are placed in the reference list as if the title was written out alphabetically. 

Formatting Author Names on an MLA Work Cited Page

Few important rules to consider when formatting author names: 1,2  

Single author

• List author names alphabetically by the author’s last name (or, for entire edited collections, editor names). The format for writing author names is as follows: 

Last name, first name, middle name or middle initial  

Said, Edward W. Culture and Imperialism . Knopf, 1994. 

• To cite more than one work by the same author, order the entries alphabetically by title, and use three hyphens in place of the author’s name for every entry after the first. 

Alcott, Louisa May. “Eight Cousins.” Project Gutenberg , 2018, www.gutenberg.org/files/2726/2726-h/2726-h.htm . 

—. Little Women . Bantam Classics, 1983. 

—. Rose in Bloom . CreateSpace, 2018. 

Two authors

The first listed author’s name on the source is the first author in the reference.  

Last name, First name of author 1, and First name Last name of author 2 

Pavear, Richard, and Larissa Volokhonsky, translators. Crime and Punishment . By Feodor Dostoevsky, Vintage eBooks, 1993. 

Three or more authors

Include only the first listed author’s last name, followed by a comma and their first name, followed by another comma and then “et al.”  

Example:  

Baron, Sabrina Alcorn, et al., editors. Agent of Change: Print Culture Studies after Elizabeth L. Eisenstein. U of Massachusetts P / Center for the Book, Library of Congress, 2007. 

General rules

• Do not list titles (Dr., Sir, etc.) or degrees (PhD, MA, MD, etc.) with names but include suffixes like “Jr.” or “II.”  

King, Martin Luther, Jr. 

• Alphabetize works with no known author by their title; use a shortened version of the title in the parenthetical citations in your paper. 

Baudrillard, Jean. Simulacra and Simulations . […] 

Boring Postcards USA […] 

• To cite works by authors using a pseudonym or stage-name, cite the better-known name if the person is well known. For example, Lewis Carroll is the pseudonym of Charles Dodgson, and is the better-known name so only the pseudonym should be used. If the pseudonym is less well known, cite the real name in square brackets after the pseudonym.  

Van Dyne, Edith [L. Frank Baum]. Aunt Jane’s Nieces At Work . 1st World Library, 2006. 

Key Takeaways

To summarize, an MLA Works Cited page should have the following format: 

• Starts on a new page at the end. 
• Centered page title without any highlights. 
• Double-spaced citations, preferably in Times New Roman 12-pt font. 
• Left-justified entries with a hanging indent of 0.5 inches. 
• Source titles in title case. 
• Entries ordered by the first word, typically author name or the first word in the title (except articles a, an, the). If the title begins with a year or a number, alphabetize it as if the number/year is spelled out. 

Frequently Asked Questions

A1. The Works Cited page and references have a similar purpose; both include sources that have been specifically cited or paraphrased in the paper and whose data have been directly used. A bibliography includes a list of sources related to the content in a research paper, that is, sources that you may have consulted while writing your research paper, but may not have actually used, cited, or paraphrased from. 1   

A2. Yes, there are a few other styles for citing references, such as the Chicago Style, AMA Manual of Style, APA Manual of Style, and the IEEE style. All of these have different referencing formats. In addition, organizations may create their own referencing styles, commonly called a house style. 

A3. No, the Works Cited page should include only those sources that you have cited or whose data you have used in your research paper. Sources that you have only consulted while conducting research should be included in a bibliography. 

A4. Per MLA format, ignore symbols, such as hashtags when alphabetizing. Use the first letter in the entry to alphabetize. 9   Example:  @AP. “It’s been four years since the #MeToo movement took over social media. . . .” X, 15 Oct. 2021, https://twitter.com/AP/status/1449019990741590025.  “#MeToo Poll: Many in US More Willing to Call Out Misconduct.” Associated Press , 15 Oct. 2021, https://apnews.com/article/sexual-misconduct-metoo-79688da3a0c3519d2a76b5b6e6b23ba7.  “#MeToo Protest in Amsterdam after Allegations at TV Show.” Associated Press , 29 Jan. 2022, https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-business-arts-and-entertainment-netherlands-amsterdam-4bb589aae061e534b1a47ac453e9d85f . 

A5. Here is one way of adding a hanging indent in MS Word: 10   1. Highlight the text that you want to format.   2. Click the Home tab at the top of the page; in the “Paragraph” section click the small arrow in the lower-right corner to open a window with different paragraph setting options.   3. In that settings window, look for a section, “Indentation,” which has an option, “Special.” Click the drop-down menu beneath Special and select Hanging.   4. MS Word will mostly have the default spacing of the hanging indent set to 0.5 inches. To adjust the spacing, change the number in the By section.  5. Click OK to save and apply the hanging indent to your highlighted text. 

To summarize, an MLA Works Cited page is an essential part of a manuscript written using the MLA style and includes all sources used by the author to write the research paper. As described in the article, the Works Cited page and its entries have a specific format that should be strictly followed, and all the core elements included in the individual entries.  

We hope this article has provided a deeper understanding of the MLA style and will help you apply this format to all your Works Cited pages. 

References  

• What is a works cited page? EasyBib website. Accessed May 14, 2024. https://www.easybib.com/guides/citation-guides/mla-format/how-to-format-a-mla-works-cited-list/  
• MLA Works Cited page: Basic format. Purdue Online Writing Lab. Accessed May 14, 2024. https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_works_cited_page_basic_format.html  
• MLA Citation: Works Cited Example. Press Books @ MSL website. Accessed May 16, 2024. https://pressbooks.ulib.csuohio.edu/csu-fyw-rhetoric/chapter/12-4-mla-works-cited-examples/  
• MLA Works Cited Page. The University of Arizona Global Campus Writing Center. Accessed May 17, 2024. https://writingcenter.uagc.edu/mla-works-cited-page  
• Section 5. List of Works Cited. MLA Handbook eighth edition. 
• Sample MLA Works Cited Page. College of San Mateo library website. Accessed May 17, 2024. https://www.collegeofsanmateo.edu/library/docs/MLAWorksCited7.pdf  
• MLA Style Guide, 8 th & 9 th Editions: Title of Source. Accessed May 18, 2024. https://irsc.libguides.com/c.php?g=483085&p=3303403#:~:text=Italicize%20titles%20if%20the%20source,are%20placed%20in%20quotation%20marks . 
• Frequently Asked Questions about Citing Sources in MLA Format. Harvard Guide to Using Sources. Accessed May 20, 2024. https://usingsources.fas.harvard.edu/frequently-asked-questions-about-citing-sources-mla-format  
• How do I alphabetize a works-cited-list entry that begins with a hashtag or another symbol? MLA Style Center. Accessed May 21, 2024. https://style.mla.org/alphabetizing-hashtags-and-other-symbols/  
• Hanging Indents and Microsoft Word. MLA Style Center. Accessed May 21, 2024. https://style.mla.org/hanging-indents/  

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MLA Citation Generator

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Don't let plagiarism errors spoil your paper

Consider your source's credibility. ask these questions:, contributor/author.

• Has the author written several articles on the topic, and do they have the credentials to be an expert in their field?
• Can you contact them? Do they have social media profiles?
• Have other credible individuals referenced this source or author?
• Book: What have reviews said about it?
• What do you know about the publisher/sponsor? Are they well-respected?
• Do they take responsibility for the content? Are they selective about what they publish?
• Take a look at their other content. Do these other articles generally appear credible?
• Does the author or the organization have a bias? Does bias make sense in relation to your argument?
• Is the purpose of the content to inform, entertain, or to spread an agenda? Is there commercial intent?
• Are there ads?
• When was the source published or updated? Is there a date shown?
• Does the publication date make sense in relation to the information presented to your argument?
• Does the source even have a date?
• Was it reproduced? If so, from where?
• If it was reproduced, was it done so with permission? Copyright/disclaimer included?

What You Need to Know About MLA Formatting

Writing a paper soon? If your assignment requires the use of Modern Language Association (MLA) style, then you're in luck! EasyBib® has tools to help you create citations for over 50 source types in this style, as well as a guide to show you how an MLA paper should be formatted. Review the guide to learn how to format a paper's title page, paragraphs, margins, quotations, abbreviations, numbers, tables, and more! There are even tips on editing, as well as on the type of paper you choose to print your paper on—yes, it's that comprehensive!

A Handy Guide for Using APA Format

Ever wonder how to cite a book with no author in APA style? Do you know how graphics should be formatted in a paper? Thanks to our EasyBib® guide on citing and formatting in American Psychological Association (APA) style, you don't have to guess anymore! We break down the guidelines for you into separate, digestible chunks of information that range from the ways to present headers, to use of abbreviations, to how to format titles for citations. There are also several helpful citation examples for you to review. Read up and start learning today!

Chicago Style Simplified

Jump start your knowledge of the Chicago Manual of Style (or Turabian style) with our structured EasyBib® guides. Each one will teach you the structure of a Chicago-style citation, followed by a real-life citation example for you to examine. Begin with our "“"Quick Guide" on citing common source types (books, magazines, newspapers, and websites). Then, discover why we have footnotes and how they work, or choose a "How to Cite" guide based on the source type you're using (e.g. photo, film, tweet, journal, blog, video on YouTube, conference paper, etc.). You're in charge of your own learning path!

Student & Teacher Blog for Better Papers

Keep your citing skills current and your writing skills fresh by reading our weekly EasyBib® Blog. You'll find articles about citing interesting source types (know how to cite a meme?), the latest updates to our tools and services, writing tips and tricks, and more! Aside from content that students (or any writer) could benefit from, we also feature posts written by educators, for educators! They discuss writing and information literacy pedagogy, present resource recommendation lists, and generally share their experience and knowledge.

Discover the EasyBib® Writing Center

Visit our writing center and explore our library of engaging guides, articles, videos, lesson plans, infographics, and other informative resources on citing, writing, and the research process. Best of all, it's free, and you can visit it anytime you need assistance. Need it now? Simply go to our homepage and input keywords based on your topic into the search bar. From there, any relevant guides will be listed with a brief description, allowing you to make an educated selection. Click on a result that fits your needs and begin reading! Easy peasy.

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Critical and Creative Studies

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MLA Citation Style Guide & Resources

Tutoring and writing centre, a note about auto-citations.

If you see a "Cite this!" button - USE CAUTION

During your research, you may come across buttons in the catalogue or individual databases that say something along the lines of "Cite this!" If you encounter these buttons, feel free to utilize them but  use caution   as more often than not, auto-citation generators will get them wrong. ALWAYS check, double-check, and triple-check to make sure your citations are correct.

A great place to provide those double-checks are at the Tutoring and Writing Centre in room 435! They can proof-read your papers to ensure your citations are good to go for your assignments. 

Here at AUArts, we use MLA (Modern Language Association) style whenever we're citing our sources in our papers. To help get you started, here are some helpful resources on MLA:

• MLA Handbook Plus (e-version) An electronic version of the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook, 2021. Can also be accessed via MyApps. Note:  For off-campus access, you will need to create an account.
• MLA Handbook Plus (physical copy) 9th edition. Available to be checked out.
• MLA Formatting and Style Guide by OWL Purdue A complete guide to citing your sources from the folks at the Online Writing Lab.
• Mount Royal University's MLA Guide (condensed and easy-to-follow) The good people at MRU have taken the MLA guide and condensed it into an easy-to-consume 19 page PDF. They also have short guides on citing images and how to format your papers.
• MLA Style Center The official MLA Style Center website
• Ask the MLA FAQ from the MLA Style Center
• MLA Citation Style Print-Friendly QuickGuide Made by our friends at the University of Alberta, this printable handout for MLA citation is a great go-to resource!

Vossler, Josh. "MLA Citation Style 9th edition."  YouTube, uploaded by Hayden Memorial Library, 4 Jun 2021, https://youtu.be/SxJtUG34F3Q?si=DWtzGdn7ucpB5d4B. 

The AUArts Tutoring and Writing Centre offers students help and assistance on a number of topics. They are citation experts and can proof-read your papers to ensure you've cited everything correctly. For free!

In addition to citation help, the Tutoring and Writing Centre also offers the following support for students:

• Brainstorming techniques
• Organizing / developing ideas
• Communicating clearly and effectively
• Editing, proof-reading, and grammar
• MLA citations and formatting
• Time management strategies
• Task organization
• Coursework clarification
• Reading comprehension
• Notetaking and active listening
• Finding your learning strengths

The Tutors can be found in room 435 and appointments can be booked by emailing [email protected]. 

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Formatting Your Research Project

To learn how to set up your research project in MLA format, visit our free sample chapter on MLA Handbook Plus , the only authorized subscription-based digital resource featuring the  MLA Handbook, available for unlimited simultaneous users at subscribing institutions.

GOVT 2306 - Sinegal - Summer 2024: Writing & Citing

• Running for a Texas Position
• Who Represents Me
• Writing & Citing
• Assignment #5 Passion Project

Citing Texas Law in MLA

While the MLA website has an outline for State Senate Bills and Codes, sometimes a tiny bit more information needs to be added to make sense of a citation. For these particular bills and amendments, I would cite the following way:

Government Entity. Code Name. Title, chapter, section (if applicable), Publisher, Last Date of Action, URL.

The publisher, in this case, could be the author of the bill or the committee if you are reading a committee report. Here's an example:

Legislative Reference Library. Senate Bill 1193, ch. 350, Wentworth, S/C on Higher Education,  31 Mar. 2005,  https://lrl.texas.gov/scanned/srcBillAnalyses/79-0/SB1193INT.PDF.

Below are some standard citations for Bills, Codes, and sections. Questions? Ask a Librarian !

The standard citation for State Senate Bills in MLA style is as follows:

Government Entity as Author. Name of Bill or Resolution. Title of Container , date of last action (day, month, year), URL. 

Example:  Texas State Legislature. House Bill 2951. Texas Legislature Online , 11 June 2023, https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=88R&Bill=HB2951. 

Parenthetical/In-Text Quote: (Author, Name of Bill)

                                              (Tex. State Legislature, HB 2951)

If you were citing an amendment to a bill, you will cite as follows:

Example: Texas State Legislature. House Bill 2951, 1-Buckley.  House Journal , 5 May 2023, https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/88R/amendments/html/HB02951H21.HTM .

Parenthetical/In-Text Quote with addition: (Author, Name of Bill, addition)

                                            (Tex. State Legislature, HB 2951, 1-Buckley)

Citing any Texas State Codes will follow the same format as the United States Code listed on the MLA website. Here's the standard citation:

Example: Texas Constitution and Statutes. Agriculture Code. Title 3, chapter 47, 1 Sep. 2021, https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/AG/htm/AG.47.htm.  

For these particular bills and amendments

If you were citing one section, you will cite as follows:

Example: Texas Constitution and Statutes. Parks and Wildlife Code. Title 4, chapter 32, section 32.151, 15 Jun. 2001, https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PW/htm/PW.32.htm#32.151.

Parenthetical/in-text citations will be (Shortened Title of Document) . 

Examples from above: (Agriculture Code)

(Parks and Wildlife Code, section 32.151) <--add section to differentiate between multiple sources with the same entity 

**Try to use abbreviations if you know them/can find them. Ex. Tex. for Texas or Bus. & Com. for Business & Communication. When in doubt, spell it out!!**

**Bolded text for emphasis only. Citations do not need bold text**

Online Tutorials

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Stumped by a Citation Question?

Ask a librarian, citing in mla.

Use the following video  and sites to learn about proper citation in MLA. In addition, learn about cross-checking your citations . 

Covers the basic citation rules and provides citation examples of the commonly used source types.

A guide from Purdue University on using MLAA guidelines in research papers and and citing all sources. A good resource for more complex MLA sources. 

You can also create citations using generators.  Remember : it's your responsibility to double check the citations for accuracy!

A citation generator for MLA, APA, Turabian and Chicago styles. Popular with students.

Citation generator created by the Hekman Library of Calvin College, it assists with creating citations in MLA, APA, and Chicago. Popular with me, the librarian.

A Firefox only extension that helps with the collection, management, and citation of sources.

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Crafting an MLA-Formatted Exploration: Deciphering the Complexity of Contemporary Narratives

This essay about decoding contemporary narratives through MLA format explores the intricate layers of modern storytelling. It emphasizes precision in analysis, recognizing the diversity of narrative forms and the active role of readers in constructing meaning. Through an interdisciplinary lens, it illuminates how these narratives reflect and shape societal complexities. The essay underscores the importance of embracing diverse interpretations and the transformative power of literature in provoking reflection and understanding.

How it works

In the dynamic realm of literature, contemporary narratives emerge as enigmatic puzzles, inviting us to unravel their multifaceted layers and uncover their profound messages. Guided by the principles of MLA format, we embark on an odyssey to traverse the complexities inherent in these narratives, venturing into uncharted territories of analysis and interpretation.

At the core of any MLA-formatted expedition lies an unwavering commitment to precision. From meticulously crafted citations to the cohesive structure of the paper, every element must adhere diligently to the standards set forth by the Modern Language Association.

This dedication to accuracy serves as the foundation of our endeavor, ensuring that our exploration is not only academically rigorous but also intellectually robust.

Essential to our journey is the recognition of the diverse spectrum of contemporary narratives that populate the literary landscape. From sprawling novels to concise vignettes, from experimental prose to multimedia storytelling, the diversity is boundless. Each narrative form presents its own unique challenges and opportunities, necessitating an adaptable and nuanced analytical approach. Whether unraveling the complexities of a fragmented narrative or decoding the symbolism woven into a visual narrative, our methodology remains rooted in the principles of close textual analysis and critical inquiry.

A defining characteristic of contemporary narratives is their ability to reflect the complexities of the modern human experience. No longer confined to linear structures or traditional storytelling conventions, these narratives embrace ambiguity, nonlinear timelines, and intricate narrative structures. They compel us to grapple with existential questions and societal issues, prompting introspection and contemplation. As we navigate these narrative landscapes, we are reminded of literature’s profound capacity to both mirror and interrogate the world around us.

Central to our exploration is the acknowledgment of the active role played by the reader in the construction of meaning. Drawing upon poststructuralist insights, we understand that meaning is not inherent within the text but is rather co-constructed through the interaction between reader and text. This recognition demands a willingness to entertain diverse interpretations and embrace the multiplicity of meanings that a text can evoke. Whether analyzing the interplay of language and image in a graphic narrative or deconstructing the narrative voice in a postmodern novel, we remain attuned to the fluidity and plurality of meaning.

As we embark on our journey, we embrace the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary narrative studies. Drawing insights from literary theory, cultural studies, and media analysis, we enrich our understanding of these texts and situate them within broader cultural, historical, and socio-political contexts. This interdisciplinary approach allows us to uncover connections and patterns that might otherwise remain obscured, offering new insights into the ways in which contemporary narratives shape and are shaped by the world around us.

In conclusion, crafting an MLA-approved journey into the realm of contemporary narratives requires a steadfast commitment to precision, an openness to diversity, and an interdisciplinary approach to analysis. By delving deep into the complexities of these texts, we uncover the rich tapestry of meaning that lies beneath the surface, gaining fresh perspectives on the ways in which literature reflects and refracts the human experience. As we venture forth into this intellectual frontier, let us remain ever mindful of the transformative power of storytelling and its capacity to inspire empathy, understanding, and change.

Cite this page

Crafting an MLA-Formatted Exploration: Deciphering the Complexity of Contemporary Narratives. (2024, Jun 01). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/crafting-an-mla-formatted-exploration-deciphering-the-complexity-of-contemporary-narratives/

"Crafting an MLA-Formatted Exploration: Deciphering the Complexity of Contemporary Narratives." PapersOwl.com , 1 Jun 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/crafting-an-mla-formatted-exploration-deciphering-the-complexity-of-contemporary-narratives/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Crafting an MLA-Formatted Exploration: Deciphering the Complexity of Contemporary Narratives . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/crafting-an-mla-formatted-exploration-deciphering-the-complexity-of-contemporary-narratives/ [Accessed: 1 Jun. 2024]

"Crafting an MLA-Formatted Exploration: Deciphering the Complexity of Contemporary Narratives." PapersOwl.com, Jun 01, 2024. Accessed June 1, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/crafting-an-mla-formatted-exploration-deciphering-the-complexity-of-contemporary-narratives/

"Crafting an MLA-Formatted Exploration: Deciphering the Complexity of Contemporary Narratives," PapersOwl.com , 01-Jun-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/crafting-an-mla-formatted-exploration-deciphering-the-complexity-of-contemporary-narratives/. [Accessed: 1-Jun-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Crafting an MLA-Formatted Exploration: Deciphering the Complexity of Contemporary Narratives . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/crafting-an-mla-formatted-exploration-deciphering-the-complexity-of-contemporary-narratives/ [Accessed: 1-Jun-2024]

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Will I Get Caught Using Chat GPT?

ChatGPT has been around for a little over a year but already found popularity among all groups of users. School and college students have taken a particular liking to it. However, many students avoid using the chatbot for fear that their teacher might catch them.

Read this article to learn more about ChatGPT, its features, and whether your teacher can actually find out if you use it for your homework.

What is Chat GPT?

ChatGPT was first introduced to the world in November 2022. At the time, it was a one-of-a-kind chatbot that used the power of generative AI to create content in response to specific prompts. In simpler words, ChatGPT can analyze your questions and use its vast database of texts to write a cohesive reply.

Before it was introduced to the public, the AI was trained on a massive amount of text sources. Slowly but surely, it “learned” how language works. Now, it can “speak” using this knowledge, repeating the patterns it learned and predicting how the next part of its response should go word by word.

This technology revolutionized the whole globe and opened a new world of opportunities to users from different backgrounds.

Chat GPT: Applications and main features

As a text-based model, ChatGPT can be used across many domains. Let’s explore the main capabilities of Chat GPT and its applications in real life.

• Content creation . ChatGPT can create completely new texts based on a user’s prompt. This is a particularly useful feature for businesses that have to generate a lot of content like ad texts, social media, blog posts, video scripts, etc.
• Research . ChatGPT can use its enormous database to find answers to specific research questions or provide brief overviews of certain sources. It can also give a list of references that researchers are welcome to study further for a more in-depth analysis.
• Translation . ChatGPT can translate texts into over 50 different languages. It can also provide feedback and proofread existing translations.
• Consulting . It’s possible to use ChatGPT for various consultations. Most users prefer asking their questions to the chatbot instead of sorting through myriad web pages selected by search engines. Also, Chat GPT helps users brainstorm ideas, acts as customer support, and even gives basic mental health counseling.
• Proofreading . You can ask the AI chatbot to check your texts or translations for any grammar mistakes. It can in turn give you suggestions to improve your text even more.

As you can see, the capabilities of Chat GPT extend to a wide range of areas, and this is just a small portion of what it can do. It’s also safe to say that the true potential of GPT technology is yet to be explored.

Can I get caught using ChatGPT?

Given how quickly OpenAI’s chatbot took over the world, it’s not surprising that students have already discovered all the benefits of using generative AI for homework. However, there is a common concern that AI writing can be detected by teachers and professors. So, is it true?

Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Texts produced by ChatGPT have several distinct features of texts that experienced educators can easily detect. Besides, there already are a lot of automatic services that can analyze your essays and find traces of ChatGPT origin. Here is a list of these features that are often attributed to AI generators.

• Repetitive patterns . While ChatGPT was trained on a large dataset of texts, it can still use repetitive phrases, particularly in specific contexts. This repetition can become very obvious in longer texts like essays.
• Unusual phrasing . AI may generate sentences or phrases that sound slightly off or unnatural to human readers, which can be caused by low-quality training data or errors in the way the model understands the language.
• Lack of emotion . ChatGPT-generated text often lacks the emotional depth that is typical of human writing. No matter how hard we try to stay neutral, our personal biases seep into our writing while AI tends to produce unnaturally dry text. 
• Factual errors . There are a lot of examples when ChatGPT was seen making up non-existent facts. This is the most obvious mistake that can tip your teacher off about your use of AI generators.
• Lack of creativity . AI may produce texts that rely on common language idioms or templates. This can become a hindrance, especially when your assignment is to show off your creative skills.

As you see, detecting ChatGPT can be easy if you know what to look for. That’s why teachers can often tell when you use it to complete your assignments.

How to avoid getting caught using Chat GPT

Thankfully, there are ways to hide that you used Chat GPT help. But they still require some effort on your part.

1. Generate ideas instead of text

Sure, It’s easier to ask ChatGPT to write an entire paper at once. But it’s much safer to use it to brainstorm ideas. Ask it to compile a plan for your essay or think of supporting arguments. Don’t copy everything it writes without editing. Remember that you need to stick to your style of writing.

Search for sources

You can also ask ChatGPT to compile a list of sources for your papers. But always double-check that these sources exist. As we already know, ChatGPT can write factually incorrect texts, so it’s better to study sources yourself. This way, you’ll also be ready should your teacher ask any follow-up questions about your research.

Use Ai-generator Aithor

While ChatGPT was the first AI chatbot, it’s not the best now. There are plenty of new language models that are trained to write specific texts.

AI-generator Aithor is one of these models. Trained on a large database of academic texts, Aithor can generate top-notch essays and research papers that follow the rules of academic writing to a T.

It can also simulate your writing styles and create completely original texts free of plagiarism. Your teachers won’t find out that you used it because AI-generator Aithor uses constantly improving AI detectors that eliminate this risk.

Explore all the advantages of Aithor right now!

The capabilities of Chat GPT are immense, but there’s still a chance that your teachers will detect it. To avoid this, use this chatbot with caution, for instance, to generate ideas, compile a list of references, or proofread your texts. Or try AI-generator AIthor specifically trained to create academic tests and forget about this concern once and for all.

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