When it comes to academic writing, proper citation and referencing are crucial for maintaining the integrity and credibility of one's work. The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is one of the most widely used citation formats, especially in the humanities. However, managing MLA sources and creating a cited page can be overwhelming, especially for students who are new to academic writing. In this article, we will explore 12 hacks for creating an MLA sources cited page that can help students achieve easy grades.
Understanding MLA Style
The MLA style is a set of guidelines for formatting and citing sources in academic papers. It is commonly used in the humanities, such as literature, language, and cultural studies. The MLA style requires that all sources used in a paper be properly cited, both in the text and on a separate Works Cited page. The Works Cited page is a list of all the sources used in the paper, formatted according to MLA guidelines.
MLA Sources Cited Page Basics
Before we dive into the hacks, it’s essential to understand the basics of an MLA sources cited page. The Works Cited page should be a separate page at the end of the paper, with the title “Works Cited” centered at the top. The page should include a list of all the sources used in the paper, formatted according to MLA guidelines. Each source should be listed in alphabetical order by the author’s last name, and should include the author’s name, title of the source, publication date, and publication information.
| Source Type | MLA Format |
|---|---|
| Book | Author's Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Publication Date. |
| Article | Author's Last Name, First Name. "Title of Article." Title of Journal, vol. Volume Number, no. Issue Number, Publication Date, pp. Page Numbers. |
| Website | Author's Last Name, First Name. "Title of Webpage." Title of Website, Publication Date, URL. Accessed Date. |
12 MLA Sources Cited Page Hacks
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the 12 hacks for creating an MLA sources cited page. These hacks will help you create a properly formatted Works Cited page and ensure that you get easy grades.
Hack #1: Use a Template
One of the easiest ways to create an MLA sources cited page is to use a template. There are many online templates available that can help you format your Works Cited page correctly. Simply fill in the necessary information for each source, and the template will do the rest.
Hack #2: Use a Citation Generator
Citation generators are online tools that can help you create MLA citations quickly and easily. Simply enter the necessary information for each source, and the generator will create a properly formatted citation for you.
Hack #3: Keep Track of Sources as You Go
One of the biggest mistakes students make when creating an MLA sources cited page is not keeping track of their sources as they go. Make sure to keep a list of all the sources you use as you research and write your paper, and format each citation as you go.
Hack #4: Use a Consistent Format
Consistency is key when it comes to creating an MLA sources cited page. Make sure to use a consistent format for each citation, and use the same formatting throughout the page.
Hack #5: Double-Check Your Sources
It’s essential to double-check your sources to ensure that they are accurate and up-to-date. Make sure to verify the author’s name, title of the source, publication date, and publication information for each source.
Hack #6: Use a Style Guide
The MLA Handbook is the official style guide for MLA formatting. Make sure to consult the handbook regularly to ensure that your Works Cited page is properly formatted.
Hack #7: Get Help from a Librarian
Librarians are a great resource for help with MLA formatting. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re unsure about how to format a particular source or if you need help with your Works Cited page.
Hack #8: Use Online Resources
There are many online resources available to help with MLA formatting, including the MLA website, Purdue Online Writing Lab, and EasyBib. Make sure to consult these resources regularly to ensure that your Works Cited page is properly formatted.
Hack #9: Keep Your Sources Organized
Keeping your sources organized is essential for creating a properly formatted Works Cited page. Make sure to keep all your sources in one place, such as a folder or a citation manager, and keep them organized by author or title.
Hack #10: Use a Citation Manager
Citation managers, such as EndNote or Zotero, can help you keep your sources organized and format your citations quickly and easily. Make sure to use a citation manager to help you create your Works Cited page.
Hack #11: Proofread Your Work
Proofreading your work is essential for creating a properly formatted Works Cited page. Make sure to proofread your page carefully to ensure that all the information is accurate and up-to-date.
Hack #12: Get Feedback from a Peer
Finally, make sure to get feedback from a peer or instructor on your Works Cited page. They can help you identify any errors or inconsistencies and provide feedback on how to improve your formatting.
What is the purpose of an MLA sources cited page?
+The purpose of an MLA sources cited page is to provide a list of all the sources used in a paper, formatted according to MLA guidelines. This allows readers to locate the sources used in the paper and gives credit to the original authors.
How do I format an MLA sources cited page?
+To format an MLA sources cited page, you should include a list of all the sources used in the paper, formatted according to MLA guidelines. Each source should be listed in alphabetical order by the author’s last name, and should include the author’s name, title of the source, publication date, and publication information.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when creating an MLA sources cited page?
+Some common mistakes to avoid when creating an MLA sources cited page include not including all the necessary information for each source, not using a consistent format, and not proofreading the page carefully. Make sure to double-check your sources and use a style guide to ensure that your Works Cited page is properly formatted.
