Introduction to MLA Style
Proper citation and documentation are critical to a successful paper as they can make the difference between a well-supported paper and, at worst, a fine piece of plagiarism. Citing your sources gives credit to the original sources and provides authority for your paper. It also allows your readers to check your sources and evaluate the evidence that you provide. Following the standard citation style of a field or type of publication helps your readers easily locate and comprehend where you found your evidence and support, an asset you will appreciate when doing your own research in other people’s works.
Modern Language Association (MLA) Style is a set of documentation and formatting guidelines for content like essays, articles, and books in print and online. The articles below provide specifics for the guidelines. The articles contain the following information:
MLA Citation Guide: Formatting examples for in-text and bibliographic citations for various types of sources.
MLA In-text Citations Overview: Background and brief examples of narrative and parenthetical annotations for sources of information writers use in their own work.
MLA Works Cited Page Overview: Background and brief examples of bibliographic citations for sources upon which a writer relies in their own work.