Modern Language Association MLA

The Why You need to use MLA anytime you are citing, quoting, or referencing information from a source not of your own creation. This format (and others like it) keeps you from committing plagiarism. Finally it forces all papers written into a standard format that allows for easy, quick and impartial reading

The How MLA uses a three part system: 1. The page layout 2. The works cited page 3. The in-text citation

Part 1: The page layout When using MLA format your pages should: Be typed In 12 pt font Using Times New Roman Use 1 in margins Double spaced Have a header with your last name, and page number

Example 1 in margins Header: Last name and pg #

Part 2 : The works cited page This page is a collection of all of the reference works in your essay. Here the reader should be able to look at each source listed and look it up on their own. Refer to the reference sheet I gave you for all the details REMEMBER: the citations change by the source and the devil is in the details, so pay close attention!

Example: NOTE: Listed alphabetically Not enumerated Double spaced Done according to MLA rules Indented after first line

Part 3: In-text citation As your essay is read, the reader should be able to reference back and forth between your work cited page and your essay, using the in-text citations as a guide to where you got the information you are writing about. Standard format: (Author’s last name pg #). See the reference sheet I gave you for detailed examples (the green sheet)

Example (Author’s last name pg #). Pay attention to the periods!!! Author’s name not in citation b/c it is in the sentence earlier

Homework Apply the page formatting to your editorial 1 inch margins 12 pt font Double spaced Times New Roman Internal citations (blah 293). Create a works cited page using the sources you have gathered Four sources 1 book source The rest is up to you