How to Write Works Cited MLA: A Comprehensive Guide for Students

Writing a research paper can feel like navigating a complex maze. One of the most crucial, yet often overlooked, elements is the Works Cited page. Following the Modern Language Association (MLA) guidelines for your Works Cited page ensures you give proper credit to the sources you used and avoid plagiarism. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of how to write a Works Cited page in MLA format, making the process clear and manageable.

Understanding the Importance of a Works Cited Page

The Works Cited page is more than just a list of sources; it is the cornerstone of academic integrity. It demonstrates that you’ve conducted thorough research, gives credit to the authors whose work you’ve built upon, and allows your readers to verify your sources. Failing to properly cite your sources can lead to serious academic consequences, including failing grades or even expulsion. A well-formatted Works Cited page reflects the quality of your research and writing.

Essential Formatting Guidelines for MLA Works Cited

Before diving into the specifics of citing various source types, let’s cover the fundamental formatting rules that apply to all entries in your Works Cited page. These rules are non-negotiable and are crucial for creating a professional and easily readable list.

General Formatting Principles

  • Page Placement: The Works Cited page should always begin on a new page at the end of your research paper.
  • Heading: Center the title “Works Cited” at the top of the page. Don’t use bold, italics, or any other special formatting for the heading.
  • Font and Spacing: Use the same font and size as the rest of your paper (typically Times New Roman, 12-point font). Double-space the entire page, including the entries and between entries.
  • Alphabetical Order: Arrange your entries alphabetically by the first word of each entry, which is usually the author’s last name. If no author is listed, use the title of the work.
  • Hanging Indentation: The first line of each entry should be flush with the left margin. Subsequent lines should be indented 0.5 inches.

The Core Elements of an MLA Citation

While specific citation formats vary depending on the source type, all MLA citations typically include the following core elements:

  • Author: The person or entity responsible for the work.
  • Title of Source: The title of the specific work you are citing (e.g., a book chapter, an article).
  • Title of Container: The larger work that contains the source (e.g., the book, the journal). This is a newer element in MLA 9th edition.
  • Other Contributors: Editors, translators, or other individuals who contributed to the work.
  • Version: The edition or version of the work (e.g., 2nd edition).
  • Number: Volume, issue, or other identifying numbers.
  • Publisher: The entity that published the work.
  • Publication Date: The year the work was published.
  • Location: Page numbers, URL, DOI, or other location information.

Citing Common Source Types in MLA

Now, let’s look at how to format citations for some of the most common source types you’ll encounter.

Books: The Foundation of Many Research Papers

Citing a book is a fundamental skill in MLA. Here’s the basic format:

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

Example:

Smith, John. The History of American Literature. Oxford University Press, 2020.

Journal Articles: Navigating Scholarly Research

Journal articles require a slightly different format, including the journal title and volume/issue information:

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

Example:

Jones, Mary. “The Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture.” Environmental Studies Quarterly, Vol. 15, No. 2, 2021, pp. 45-62.

Websites: Citing Online Sources Correctly

Citing websites can be tricky, as information can be added and deleted easily. Here’s the basic format:

  • Author (if available). “Title of Page.” Title of Website, Publication Date, URL. Accessed Date.

Example:

Doe, Jane. “The Benefits of Exercise.” Healthline, 12 Jan. 2023, www.healthline.com/benefits-of-exercise. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.

Other Media: Citing Films, Podcasts, and More

MLA also provides guidelines for citing various forms of media.

  • Films: Title of Film. Directed by Director’s Name, Distributor, Publication Date.
  • Podcasts: “Title of Episode.” Title of Podcast, Hosted by Host’s Name, Publisher, Publication Date, URL.
  • Social Media Posts: Author. “Content of the Post.” Website or Platform, Date, URL.

Tools and Resources to Simplify the Process

While understanding the rules is important, several tools can help you create accurate citations.

Citation Generators: A Helpful Starting Point

Citation generators, like those offered by Purdue OWL, EasyBib, or Cite This For Me, can be valuable. These tools allow you to input the information about your source and automatically generate a citation in MLA format. However, always double-check the output against the MLA guidelines, as generators can sometimes make errors.

The MLA Handbook: Your Authoritative Guide

The MLA Handbook is the definitive resource for all things MLA. It provides detailed instructions, examples, and answers to almost any citation question. Consider it your bible for proper formatting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Works Cited Page

Even experienced writers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

  • Inconsistent Formatting: Ensure all entries follow the same formatting rules.
  • Incorrect Punctuation: Pay close attention to commas, periods, and other punctuation marks.
  • Missing Information: Always include all the required elements for each source type.
  • Using the Wrong Edition: Make sure your citation is aligned with the most current version of MLA.
  • Neglecting Proofreading: Always proofread your Works Cited page for errors before submitting your paper.

Troubleshooting Common Citation Challenges

Sometimes, you’ll encounter unusual sources or situations that require a bit of detective work.

Dealing with Multiple Authors

For works with multiple authors, list the authors in the order they appear on the source. For works with more than three authors, list the first author followed by “et al.”

Citing Sources with No Author

When a source has no author, begin the citation with the title of the work.

Handling Online Sources with No Publication Date

If a publication date is unavailable, use the access date. If an access date is also unavailable, try to find an approximate date based on the content of the source.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if a source has multiple editions?

The edition of the work you used needs to be cited. This can be included after the Title of the Book.

How do I cite a source that I found within another source?

You would cite the source you actually used, and then in the citation, you would add “qtd. in” followed by the author’s last name of the source where you found the original source.

Is it okay to use a citation generator without verifying the results?

While citation generators are helpful, it’s essential to review their output against the MLA guidelines to ensure accuracy. Errors can occur.

How do I handle a long URL?

You can shorten the URL by using a URL shortener, or you can simply include the complete URL.

What if I’m unsure how to cite a specific type of source?

Consult the MLA Handbook or the Purdue OWL website. These resources provide detailed examples and guidance for virtually every source type.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of MLA Works Cited

Writing a Works Cited page in MLA format is a fundamental skill for any student or researcher. By understanding the basic formatting rules, the core citation elements, and the specific formats for common source types, you can create a Works Cited page that is both accurate and professional. Remember to utilize the tools and resources available, such as citation generators and the MLA Handbook, to assist you. By avoiding common mistakes and addressing any citation challenges, you can confidently navigate the process and ensure your research paper is well-documented and academically sound. Through diligent effort and attention to detail, you can master the art of the MLA Works Cited page and showcase the quality of your research.