How to Create a Works Cited Page in MLA Style

Creating a Works Cited Page in MLA Style

Creating an effective works cited page is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and credibility. In MLA format, the works cited page is the final section of your research paper that lists all sources you have used in your research. It provides readers with essential information about the sources you consulted, including title, author, publication date, and publisher. By mastering how to create a works cited page in MLA style, you can ensure that your research is properly attributed and that you avoid plagiarism.

Understanding the Basics of MLA Citation Style

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details of creating a works cited page, it's essential to understand the basics of MLA citation style. In MLA format, citations are organized into different types based on the source type, such as book, article, or website. The in-text citations and the corresponding entries in the works cited page follow specific formatting guidelines.

Tip 1: Format Your Sources Correctly

To create an accurate works cited page, you must ensure that your sources are formatted correctly according to MLA guidelines. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to format common source types:

• Book:
  • Lastname, Firstname. Title of the Book. Publisher, Year of Publication. Example: Smith, John. The History of Literature. Random House, 2010.
• Journal Article:
  • Lastname, Firstname. "Article Title." Journal Name Volume. Issue (Year): Page Numbers. Example: Johnson, Jane. "The Impact of Climate Change." Environmental Studies Quarterly 10.2 (2018): 12-25.

Tip 2: Use the Correct In-Text Citation

In-text citations are essential for providing readers with quick access to your sources. Here's a list of common in-text citation formats:

• Book:
  • (Lastname, Firstname Page Number) or (Smith 23) Example: (Johnson 12)
• Journal Article:
  • (Lastname, Firstname Page Numbers) or (Lastname, Firstname "Article Title" Page Numbers) Example: (Johnson 15)

Tip 3: Organize Your Works Cited Page

The organization of your works cited page is just as crucial as the formatting. Here's a general outline to follow:

• Alphabetize by author's last name
• Group sources with the same first letter together
• Start each entry on a new line

Tip 4: Use Hanging Indentation for Longer Entries

If you have longer entries, such as articles or book chapters, use hanging indentation to make them more readable. Here's how:

• Set the margin to 0.5 inches (or 1 cm) on both sides
• Use a font size of at least 12 points
• Leave no extra space between lines

Conclusion

Creating an effective works cited page is a critical component of academic writing in MLA format. By following these practical tips and understanding the basics of MLA citation style, you can ensure that your research paper is properly attributed and that you maintain academic integrity.