Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A Works Cited is a list of sources that you have referenced or cited in your essay or research paper. It includes the author's name, title of the source, publication information, and other relevant details.
Related terms
In-text citation: A brief reference within the body of your essay that directs readers to the full citation in the Works Cited.
MLA format: The specific set of guidelines established by the Modern Language Association for formatting academic papers and citing sources.
Bibliography: Similar to a Works Cited, but it includes all sources consulted during research, not just those directly cited in the paper.