How do I cite my sources in MLA?

We have found best way to teach students to correctly format a works cited page is to start with an example page.  You should find an example that is closest to the source you have and replace the info in the example with info from your book or article.

Example works cited page

MLA Format

Create your works cited entries as you go, that way you can use correct in-text citations when writing your paper.

There are two kinds of citations that you need when you use a resource for a paper in MLA format.

• In-text citations:  If you use information in the body of your paper that is not yours, such as quotes, facts or ideas that have not come from your brain, you need an in-text citation at the end of the sentence or paragraph.  If the information you are using is a quote or exists in one sentence only, then you will put the citation at the end of the sentence.  If you summarize or paraphrase ideas that are not yours, you will put the citation at the end of the paragraph or portion of the paragraph where the information ends.

Format:  In MLA format, an in-text citation is in parentheses, also called a parenthetical citation, and contains the authors last name, followed by the page number where the information was found. 

Examples:

Romantic poetry is characterized by the "spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings" (Wordsworth 263).  This is a typical parenthetical citation.

Wordsworth stated that Romantic poetry was marked by a "spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings" (263).  When the author's name is included in the sentence, the name does not appear in the parenthetical citation.

 

Wordsworth extensively explored the role of emotion in the creative process (263).  Even if you are summarizing or paraphrasing, you still need a parenthetical citation.

An anonymous Wordsworth critic once argued that his poems were too emotional ("Wordsworth Is a Loser" 100).  If the source does not have an author, use an abbreviation of the title.

from:  http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/557/02/

• Works Cited citations:  Creating your Works Cited page is one of the most important elements of your paper.  The Works Cited page is where you will list all of the resources you have used, as well as where you have the documentation for your parenthetical citations.  The Works Cited page will serve as your protection against plagiarism.  Citing your sources in MLA format is complicated.  We recommend that you use the MLA Handbook to assist you as well as the web sites that you will find at this link.  If you have questions about citing your sources PLEASE ASK THE LIBRARIANS!

The MLA Handbook is available in library!!!!!

MLA Handout from JCCC Writing Center

Click here for a list of great websites to help you cite your sources.

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