Modern Language Association MLA The Why You need

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!

NOTE: 1. Listed alphabetically 2. Not enumerated 3. Double spaced 4. Done according to MLA rules 5. Indented after first line Example:

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