Introduction
MLA (Modern Language Association) is a widely used citation style for research papers, essays, and other academic documents. It is commonly used in the humanities field, including literature, language, and cultural studies. MLA style provides guidelines on how to format papers, how to cite sources, and how to create a works cited page. In this article, we will discuss how to use MLA format for your research paper and provide tips on how to avoid common mistakes.
Getting Started
Before you start writing your paper, you need to ensure that you have the correct format. Here are the basic guidelines for formatting your paper in MLA style:
1. Use 8.5 x 11 inch white paper.
2. Use a legible font such as Times New Roman, size 12.
3. Double-space your entire paper, including the works cited page.
4. Use 1 inch margins on all sides of the page.
5. Include your last name and page number in the upper right-hand corner of each page.
Title Page
Unlike other citation styles, MLA does not require a separate title page. Instead, include your name, instructor's name, course name, and date in the upper left-hand corner of the first page. Center the title of your paper on the next line, and use title case (capitalize the first letter of each word except for prepositions, conjunctions, and articles).
In-Text Citations
MLA style requires that you cite sources in the text of your paper rather than in footnotes or endnotes. In-text citations include the author's last name and the page number(s) where the information was found. If the author's name is mentioned in the text, only the page number(s) need to be included in the citation.
For example: According to Smith, "MLA is a widely used citation style" (45).
If the author's name is not mentioned in the text, include it in parentheses along with the page number(s).
For example: "MLA is a widely used citation style" (Smith 45).
Works Cited Page
The works cited page is a list of all the sources you used in your paper. It should be organized alphabetically by the author's last name. Each entry should include the author's name, the title of the source, the publication date, and other relevant information such as the publisher or journal name.
Here is an example of a works cited entry for a book:
Smith, John. The Art of Writing. Penguin Books, 2010.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Forgetting to include in-text citations or a works cited page.
2. Failing to double-space your paper.
3. Using a font that is difficult to read, such as Comic Sans or Arial.
4. Including irrelevant information on the title page, such as your address or phone number.
5. Failing to proofread your paper for errors in spelling and grammar.
Conclusion
Using MLA format for your research paper is essential for academic success. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your paper is properly formatted and cited. Remember to always check with your instructor for any specific requirements they may have for your paper. With these tips, you can confidently write your next research paper in MLA style.
