When it comes to citing sources in academic writing, one of the most widely used formats is the Modern Language Association (MLA) style. The MLA format Work Cited page is a crucial element of any research paper, as it provides a comprehensive list of all the sources used in the paper. In this guide, we will break down the basics of the MLA format Work Cited page and provide tips on how to create one with ease.
What is the MLA Format Work Cited Page?
The MLA format Work Cited page is a list of all the sources cited in a research paper, formatted according to the MLA style guidelines. The page is usually titled “Works Cited” and is placed at the end of the paper, after any endnotes or appendices. The Work Cited page serves as a reference list, allowing readers to locate and consult the sources used in the paper.
Basic Elements of the MLA Format Work Cited Page
A typical MLA format Work Cited page includes the following elements:
- Source Type: The type of source, such as book, article, or website, determines the citation format.
- Author’s Name: The author’s name is usually listed in the format “Last Name, First Name.”
- Title of Source: The title of the source is capitalized and enclosed in quotation marks or italicized, depending on the type of source.
- Publication Information: The publication information, such as the publisher, publication date, and page numbers, varies depending on the source type.
| Source Type | Format |
|---|---|
| Book | Author's Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Year of Publication. |
| Article | Author's Last Name, First Name. "Title of Article." Title of Publication, Day Month Year of Publication, pp. Page Numbers. |
| Website | Author's Last Name, First Name. "Title of Webpage." Title of Website, Day Month Year of Publication, URL. Accessed Day Month Year. |
Formatting the MLA Format Work Cited Page
When formatting the MLA format Work Cited page, follow these guidelines:
- Double-Space: Double-space the entire page, including the title and the citations.
- Indentation: Use a hanging indent, also known as a second-line indent, for each citation.
- Alphabetize: Alphabetize the citations by the author’s last name or the title of the source, if there is no author.
- Punctuation: Use commas, periods, and semicolons to separate elements within a citation.
Tips for Creating an Accurate MLA Format Work Cited Page
To ensure accuracy and consistency, follow these tips:
- Keep Track of Sources: Keep a record of all the sources used in the paper, including the author’s name, title, and publication information.
- Use a Citation Guide: Consult a reliable citation guide, such as the MLA Handbook or an online citation tool, to ensure accurate formatting.
- Proofread: Carefully proofread the Work Cited page to catch any errors or inconsistencies.
What is the purpose of the MLA format Work Cited page?
+The MLA format Work Cited page provides a comprehensive list of all the sources used in a research paper, allowing readers to locate and consult the sources.
How do I format the MLA format Work Cited page?
+Double-space the entire page, use a hanging indent for each citation, alphabetize the citations, and use commas, periods, and semicolons to separate elements within a citation.
What sources should be included in the MLA format Work Cited page?
+All sources cited in the paper, including books, articles, websites, and other types of sources, should be included in the MLA format Work Cited page.
