How To Write an MLA Works Cited: A Comprehensive Guide

Writing a research paper can feel like navigating a maze, and one of the trickiest parts is often the Works Cited page. This page is crucial; it’s where you meticulously list all the sources you’ve used in your paper, giving credit where credit is due and allowing your readers to find the information themselves. Using the Modern Language Association (MLA) format is a standard for many humanities disciplines. This guide will provide you with everything you need to create a flawless MLA Works Cited page.

Understanding the Importance of an MLA Works Cited Page

Why is a Works Cited page so important? Think of it as a declaration of your research integrity. It shows that you’ve done your homework and are building your arguments on solid foundations. It also:

  • Provides credibility: Properly citing your sources lends weight to your arguments and demonstrates academic rigor.
  • Avoids plagiarism: By giving credit to the original authors, you avoid the serious academic offense of plagiarism.
  • Allows for verification: Readers can check your sources to understand your arguments and conduct further research.
  • Establishes your research scope: The Works Cited page gives readers a clear picture of the range and depth of your research.

The Core Elements of an MLA Citation: The “Core Elements” Approach

MLA 9th edition emphasizes the concept of “core elements” for constructing citations. This approach simplifies the process by focusing on the essential information needed for any source. Here are the core elements you’ll need to know:

  • Author: The person or organization responsible for the work.
  • Title of the Source: The title of the specific work you’re citing (e.g., an article, chapter, or webpage).
  • Title of the Container: The larger work the source is part of (e.g., a book, journal, or website).
  • Other Contributors: Any other individuals involved (e.g., editors, translators).
  • Version: The edition or version of the source.
  • Number: Volume, issue, or other identifying numbers.
  • Publisher: The entity responsible for producing the work.
  • Publication Date: The date the source was published.
  • Location: Page numbers, DOI, URL, or other location information.

Formatting Your MLA Works Cited Entries: The Basics

Each Works Cited entry follows a specific format. Here’s a general template, which you’ll adapt based on the source type:

  • Author. Title of Source. Title of Container, Other Contributors, Version, Number, Publisher, Publication Date, Location.

Important Formatting Guidelines:

  • Double-space the entire Works Cited page.
  • Use a hanging indent for each entry (indent all lines after the first).
  • Alphabetize entries by the author’s last name. If no author is listed, alphabetize by the first word of the title (excluding “A,” “An,” and “The”).
  • Italicize the titles of larger works (books, journals, websites).
  • Use quotation marks for titles of shorter works (articles, chapters, poems).
  • Use the author’s full name.

Citing Different Source Types: Practical Examples

Let’s look at some common source types and how to cite them using the core elements and the general guidelines above.

Citing a Book

  • Author. Title of Book. Publisher, Publication Date.

    Example:

    Smith, John. The History of Ideas. Oxford University Press, 2020.

Citing a Journal Article

  • Author. “Title of Article.” Title of Journal, Volume, Issue, Publication Date, Page Numbers.

    Example:

    Jones, Alice. “The Impact of Climate Change.” Environmental Studies Quarterly, vol. 25, no. 2, 2021, pp. 100-120.

Citing a Website

  • Author. “Title of Page.” Title of Website, Publisher or Sponsor, Publication Date, URL.

    Example:

    Brown, David. “The Benefits of Exercise.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 12 May 2023, www.healthline.com/benefits-of-exercise.

Citing a Chapter in an Edited Book

  • Author of Chapter. “Title of Chapter.” Title of Book, edited by Editor’s Name(s), Publisher, Publication Date, Page Numbers.

    Example:

    Davis, Sarah. “The Role of Technology in Education.” Education in the 21st Century, edited by Michael Green, Routledge, 2022, pp. 45-60.

Citing online sources is similar to citing print sources, but with some key differences. The URL is critical, but don’t just copy and paste it. Include the date you accessed the website if the publication date is unavailable. Also, if the website has a DOI (Digital Object Identifier), use that instead of the URL.

Example (Website with no publication date):

Using Citation Management Tools: Streamlining Your Process

To make your life easier, consider using citation management software like Zotero, Mendeley, or EndNote. These tools allow you to:

  • Store and organize your sources.
  • Generate citations automatically.
  • Format your Works Cited page with ease.
  • Collaborate with others on research projects.

While these tools are helpful, always double-check the citations they generate to ensure accuracy and adherence to MLA guidelines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating Your Works Cited Page

Even experienced writers make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Incorrect formatting: Not using double spacing, hanging indents, or italics/quotation marks properly.
  • Missing information: Failing to include all the necessary core elements.
  • Inconsistent formatting: Using different formats for the same source type.
  • Incorrect alphabetization: Not alphabetizing entries correctly.
  • Plagiarism: Failing to cite sources at all.

Proofreading and Editing Your Works Cited Page: Ensuring Accuracy

Once you’ve completed your Works Cited page, proofreading is crucial. Check for:

  • Spelling errors in author names and titles.
  • Accuracy of publication dates and page numbers.
  • Correct punctuation, including commas, periods, and quotation marks.
  • Consistency in your formatting.

Have a friend or colleague review your page as well. A fresh pair of eyes can often catch errors you might miss.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the author’s name is unknown?

If no author is provided, start the citation with the title of the work. Alphabetize the entry based on the first main word of the title (excluding “A,” “An,” and “The”).

How do I cite a source I found through a database?

Cite the source as you normally would, then add the name of the database at the end of your citation.

What if I’m citing a source with multiple authors?

For sources with multiple authors, list the first author’s name as it appears in the source, then list the remaining authors in the order they appear, with the last name first.

How do I cite an image or illustration?

Cite the image or illustration as you would any other source, providing the artist, title, date, and location (e.g., museum, website, or book).

Can I use abbreviations in my Works Cited?

In general, avoid abbreviations in your Works Cited page. Exceptions include “p.” for page, “pp.” for pages, and “ed.” for edited by.

Conclusion: Mastering the MLA Works Cited for Academic Success

Creating a well-formatted MLA Works Cited page is a fundamental skill for any academic writer. By understanding the core elements, following the formatting guidelines, and utilizing helpful tools, you can accurately cite your sources and avoid plagiarism. Remember to proofread meticulously, and don’t hesitate to consult resources like the MLA Handbook or online guides if you have any questions. A well-crafted Works Cited page not only ensures academic integrity but also enhances the credibility and impact of your research.