MLA (Modern Language Association) formatting is a set of guidelines used to format academic papers and citations. It is commonly used in the humanities, such as literature, language, and cultural studies. The MLA style is designed to provide a consistent and clear format for writers to present their research and ideas.
History of MLA Formatting
The MLA style was first introduced in 1951 by the Modern Language Association, and it has undergone several revisions since then. The most recent edition, the 8th edition, was published in 2016. The MLA style is widely used in academic institutions and is considered one of the most popular citation styles, along with APA and Chicago.
Key Components of MLA Formatting
MLA formatting consists of several key components, including:
- Font and Spacing: MLA recommends using a legible font, such as Times New Roman, in size 12 points. The text should be double-spaced, with no extra spacing between paragraphs.
- Margins: The margins should be set to 1 inch on all sides (top, bottom, left, and right).
- Header: The header should include the writer’s last name and page number, positioned in the upper-right corner of each page.
- Title Page: MLA does not require a separate title page, but the title of the paper should be centered and positioned about one-third of the way down the page.
- In-Text Citations: MLA uses a parenthetical citation system, where the author’s last name and page number(s) are enclosed in parentheses and placed after the quoted or paraphrased text.
- Works Cited Page: The Works Cited page is a list of all sources cited in the paper, formatted according to MLA guidelines.
MLA In-Text Citations
MLA in-text citations are used to acknowledge the source of a quote, paraphrase, or idea. The citation typically includes the author’s last name and page number(s), separated by a comma. For example:
According to Smith, “the impact of climate change is devastating” (23).
If the author’s name is mentioned in the text, only the page number(s) are included in the citation:
Smith argues that “the impact of climate change is devastating” (23).
MLA Works Cited Page
The Works Cited page is a list of all sources cited in the paper, formatted according to MLA guidelines. The sources are listed alphabetically by author’s last name, and each entry includes the following elements:
- Author’s Name
- Title of Source
- Title of Container (e.g., journal, book, website)
- Version (e.g., edition, volume)
- Publisher
- Publication Date
- Page Numbers (if applicable)
- DOI or URL (if applicable)
Here is an example of a Works Cited entry for a book:
Smith, John. The Impact of Climate Change. Cambridge University Press, 2020.
Common MLA Formatting Mistakes
Some common MLA formatting mistakes include:
- Incorrect font or font size
- Inconsistent spacing or margins
- Missing or incorrect header
- Incomplete or incorrect in-text citations
- Missing or incorrect Works Cited page
To avoid these mistakes, it’s essential to carefully review the MLA guidelines and use a formatting guide or template to ensure accuracy.
| MLA Formatting Guidelines | Description |
|---|---|
| Font and Spacing | Legible font, 12-point size, double-spaced |
| Margins | 1 inch on all sides |
| Header | Last name and page number, upper-right corner |
| Title Page | No separate title page, title centered and positioned about one-third of the way down the page |
| In-Text Citations | Parenthetical citation system, author's last name and page number(s) |
| Works Cited Page | Alphabetical list of sources, formatted according to MLA guidelines |
What is the purpose of MLA formatting?
+The purpose of MLA formatting is to provide a consistent and clear format for writers to present their research and ideas, and to acknowledge the sources used in the research.
How often is the MLA Handbook updated?
+The MLA Handbook is typically updated every 5-7 years, with the most recent edition being the 8th edition, published in 2016.
What are some common MLA formatting mistakes?
+Some common MLA formatting mistakes include incorrect font or font size, inconsistent spacing or margins, missing or incorrect header, incomplete or incorrect in-text citations, and missing or incorrect Works Cited page.
