MLA style is a standardized format for writing and citing sources in academic papers, primarily used in the humanities. This style provides guidelines for formatting documents, including margins, font size, and line spacing, as well as rules for citing sources both in-text and on the Works Cited page. It ensures clarity and consistency in scholarly writing, making it easier for readers to locate and reference sources.
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MLA style recommends using 1-inch margins on all sides and a legible font like Times New Roman size 12.
The header in an MLA formatted paper includes the author's last name and page number on each page.
Citations in MLA style use a specific format, including the author's name, title of the source, publisher, publication date, and medium of publication.
An important feature of MLA style is the use of double spacing throughout the document, including the Works Cited page.
MLA style emphasizes the importance of creating a clear connection between in-text citations and the corresponding entries in the Works Cited list.
Review Questions
How does MLA style help improve the clarity and credibility of academic writing?
MLA style enhances clarity by providing consistent guidelines for formatting and citing sources, which allows readers to easily follow along with an author's argument. By adhering to these standards, writers build credibility through proper attribution of ideas and research. This standardization helps to avoid confusion about sources, making it simpler for readers to verify information or explore further.
What are the essential components of an MLA Works Cited entry for a book?
An MLA Works Cited entry for a book must include the author's last name followed by their first name, the title of the book italicized, the publisher's name, the year of publication, and medium of publication. For example: Smith, John. *Understanding Literature*. Penguin Books, 2020. This structure ensures that all necessary information is present for readers to locate the source easily.
Evaluate how effectively using MLA style can influence a reader's perception of a writer's argument in an academic paper.
Using MLA style effectively can significantly enhance a reader's perception of a writer's argument by demonstrating attention to detail and respect for intellectual property. When citations are properly formatted and consistently applied, it reflects a level of professionalism that instills confidence in the research presented. This organized approach also facilitates a reader's ability to engage with and evaluate the argument critically since they can easily trace back claims to their original sources.
Related terms
In-text citation: A method of crediting sources within the text of a paper, typically including the author's last name and page number.
A page at the end of a document that lists all the sources referenced in the text, formatted according to MLA guidelines.
Quoting and paraphrasing: The processes of directly using another author's words or rephrasing their ideas, both of which require proper citation to avoid plagiarism.