The MLA format is a widely accepted citation style used in academic and research papers. It provides a standardized way of formatting and citing sources, allowing readers to easily identify and locate the referenced materials. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the MLA format cited page, exploring its components, structure, and application.
Introduction to MLA Format
The Modern Language Association (MLA) format is commonly used in the humanities, such as literature, language, and cultural studies. It is designed to facilitate the citation of sources and provide a clear, concise way of presenting research findings. The MLA format consists of two primary components: in-text citations and a Works Cited page.
In-Text Citations
In-text citations in the MLA format typically consist of the author’s last name and page number(s) where the cited information can be found. For example, if you are citing a source with the author’s name, John Smith, and the relevant information is on page 23, the in-text citation would appear as (Smith 23). If the author’s name is not mentioned in the sentence, it is included in the parenthetical citation.
| Citation Type | Example |
|---|---|
| One author | (Smith 23) |
| Two authors | (Smith and Johnson 23) |
| Three or more authors | (Smith et al. 23) |
Works Cited Page
The Works Cited page is a comprehensive list of all sources cited in the paper. It is typically placed at the end of the document and provides detailed information about each source, including the author’s name, title of the work, publication date, and publication medium. The Works Cited page is formatted with a hanging indent, where the first line of each entry is flush left, and subsequent lines are indented.
Components of a Works Cited Entry
A Works Cited entry in the MLA format typically includes the following components:
- Author's name
- Title of the work
- Publication date
- Publication medium (e.g., print, web, film)
- Publisher or publication title
- Page numbers or DOI (if applicable)
For example, a Works Cited entry for a book would appear as follows:
Smith, John. The History of Literature. Oxford University Press, 2020. Print.
Examples of Works Cited Entries
Below are examples of Works Cited entries for different types of sources:
| Source Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Book | Smith, John. The History of Literature. Oxford University Press, 2020. Print. |
| Journal Article | Johnson, Mary. "The Impact of Social Media." Journal of Communication, vol. 70, no. 2, 2020, pp. 12-20. JSTOR, doi: 10.2307/24664132. |
| Website | Williams, David. "The Benefits of Meditation." Mindful Living, 10 Feb. 2022, www.mindfulliving.com/meditation-benefits. Accessed 20 Feb. 2022. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the MLA format cited page is a crucial component of academic and research papers. It provides a standardized way of citing sources and presenting research findings. By understanding the components and structure of the Works Cited page, authors can ensure that their papers are well-organized, easy to follow, and properly formatted.
What is the purpose of the MLA format?
+The MLA format is designed to provide a standardized way of formatting and citing sources, allowing readers to easily identify and locate the referenced materials.
What are the primary components of the MLA format?
+The primary components of the MLA format are in-text citations and a Works Cited page.
How do I format a Works Cited entry for a book?
+A Works Cited entry for a book should include the author’s name, title of the work, publication date, publication medium, publisher, and page numbers (if applicable).
