MLA format is a standard way of citing parenthetical references in your text and in the list of works at the end of your paper so that readers are able to find your sources. Proper formatting of your sources is required for all research.
A - Important to Note
Always copy the publication information and page numbers from your sources while
you are using them.
You must formulate complete citations for the Works Cited list in order to know how to format your parenthetical references.
Every parenthetical reference MUST have a corresponding citation in your works cited list at the end of the paper.
“Works Cited” refers to the list of your sources that are quoted, mentioned, or paraphrased while writing a paper.
If there is no author, the Title becomes the first piece of information for a citation.
The formats presented in this style guide are for sources you are most likely to use while doing research for high school papers.
If you use other materials that require additional style formatting guidance, ask your teacher or librarian forassistance, refer to a published manual, or view the web sites listed.
The MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th ed., 2009 was used to compile this summary guide. There are significant changes in the format since April of 2009 to recognize.
B - Formatting Works Cited Page
Number Pages: Works Cited page(s) are the last numbered pages of your paper.
Capitalize Heading: Capitalize and center the heading on the top of the page.
Arrange Alphabetically: Arrange citations in alphabetical order by the first word in each entry; this will be an author’s last name or the title.
Indent the Second Line: The second and each subsequent line in each citation are indented five spaces from the left margin.
Double-Space: Double-space the entire list, both between and within entries.
Punctuation: Notice and use all punctuation as indicated.
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Below is a link to a pdf copy of the Plano High School MLA Citation Guide
PHS CITATION GUIDE