The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is a widely accepted format for writing research papers, particularly in the humanities. It provides a consistent and organized way to present information, ensuring that writers can effectively communicate their ideas and acknowledge the work of others. The MLA style has undergone several revisions, with the 8th edition being the most current, offering guidance on formatting, citations, and references.
Introduction to MLA Style
The MLA style is preferred by many scholars because of its clarity and simplicity. It emphasizes the use of parenthetical citations within the text to refer to sources, which are then listed in a Works Cited page at the end of the paper. This approach allows readers to easily locate the sources used in the research. The MLA format also includes guidelines for formatting the paper, including margins, font, and line spacing.
Formatting Guidelines
According to the MLA style, a research paper should have one-inch margins on all sides (top, bottom, left, and right). The recommended font is 12-point Times New Roman, although other legible fonts are acceptable. Double spacing is required throughout the paper, including the Works Cited page. A header with the last name and page number should be included in the upper right-hand corner of each page, starting with the first page.
| Formatting Element | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Margins | 1 inch on all sides |
| Font | 12-point Times New Roman |
| Line Spacing | Double spaced |
| Header | Last name and page number in upper right corner |
Citation and Reference Guidelines
Citations in MLA style are placed within the text in parentheses and refer to the sources listed in the Works Cited page. For a source with one author, the citation includes the author’s last name and the page number(s) where the information can be found. If the source does not have an author, the title is used in the parenthetical citation. The Works Cited page is alphabetized by the author’s last name or by title if there is no author.
Examples of Citations
For a book with one author: (Smith 24)
For a source with no author: (“The Impact” 12)
For a website: (Lastname of author, “Title of page”)
The MLA style also provides guidelines for citing different types of sources, including books, articles, websites, and more, ensuring that all sources are properly acknowledged.
What is the purpose of the MLA style?
+The MLA style provides a consistent format for writing and citing sources, making it easier for writers to communicate their ideas and for readers to understand and locate sources.
How do I format a research paper in MLA style?
+A research paper in MLA style should have one-inch margins, be double spaced, and use a legible 12-point font. It should also include a header with the last name and page number on each page.
What information is included in the Works Cited page?
+The Works Cited page lists all the sources cited in the paper, formatted according to MLA guidelines. It includes information such as the author’s name, title of the source, publication date, and page numbers, depending on the type of source.
