Mla citation

Definition

MLA citation is a standardized format for documenting sources used in academic writing, particularly in the humanities. This style, developed by the Modern Language Association, provides a consistent way to give credit to authors and works consulted in research, enabling readers to locate these sources easily. Proper MLA citation not only lends credibility to the writer's work but also helps avoid plagiarism by clearly attributing ideas to their original creators.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. MLA citation requires specific formatting rules, such as using italics for titles of longer works and quotation marks for shorter works.
2. In-text citations in MLA typically include the author's last name and the page number, like this: (Smith 23).
3. The Works Cited page must be on a new page at the end of the document, with entries listed alphabetically by the author's last name.
4. MLA citation uses a hanging indent format for entries in the Works Cited list, meaning the first line is flush left while subsequent lines are indented.
5. Using MLA citation can enhance the academic integrity of a paper by demonstrating thorough research and respect for intellectual property.

Review Questions

• How does MLA citation contribute to academic integrity in student writing?
  • MLA citation contributes to academic integrity by ensuring that all sources used in a student's writing are properly credited. This practice helps prevent plagiarism by clearly attributing ideas and information to their original authors. It also allows readers to verify sources, fostering transparency and trust in academic work. By adhering to MLA guidelines, students show respect for intellectual property and acknowledge the contributions of other scholars.
• Compare and contrast MLA citation with another citation style, such as APA or Chicago. What are some key differences?
  • MLA citation differs from APA and Chicago styles primarily in its focus on authorship and its formatting conventions. While MLA emphasizes the author's name and page number for in-text citations, APA includes the author's name and year of publication, focusing more on the date of the work. Chicago style offers two systems: notes-bibliography and author-date, each serving different fields. Additionally, Works Cited entries in MLA have distinct formatting rules compared to APA's References page or Chicago's bibliography format.
• Evaluate the importance of accurate MLA citations in academic research and writing. What consequences can arise from neglecting this practice?
  • Accurate MLA citations are crucial in academic research and writing because they uphold scholarly standards and ethical practices. Neglecting proper citations can lead to serious consequences, such as accusations of plagiarism, which can damage a student's reputation and academic career. Furthermore, inaccurate citations can mislead readers regarding source material, undermining the credibility of the research. Ultimately, well-done MLA citations not only enhance a paper's quality but also contribute to a culture of honesty and accountability in academia.

Related terms

In-text Citation: A brief reference within the text of a paper that points to the full citation in the Works Cited page, typically including the author's last name and page number.

Works Cited: A list at the end of a paper that provides full details of all sources cited in the text, formatted according to MLA guidelines.

Plagiarism: The act of using someone else's work or ideas without proper attribution, which MLA citations help to prevent.