Mastering Citation: How Can I Cite Sources Effectively? - MLA’s Works Cited page includes entries formatted as follows: Most citation tools are reliable, but always double-check the generated citations for accuracy.
MLA’s Works Cited page includes entries formatted as follows:
3. Purpose of Your Work: If you’re writing for publication, follow the journal’s specific citation requirements.
MLA style, developed by the Modern Language Association, is primarily used in the humanities. It emphasizes the author and page number in in-text citations.
At its core, citation is a way of giving credit to the original sources of information, ideas, or words that you include in your own work. It’s like drawing a map for your readers, showing them exactly where you got your information. Citations typically include details like the author’s name, the title of the work, the publication date, and other relevant information, depending on the citation style you are using.
Citation serves several critical purposes that go beyond merely avoiding plagiarism. Here’s why citations are indispensable:
Different disciplines and institutions often require specific citation styles. Here are the most commonly used ones:
And so on for other styles like Chicago and online sources.
No, it’s best to stick to a single citation style throughout your work unless specified otherwise.
Understanding "how can I cite" properly is key to academic success and professional integrity. Let’s move on to discuss why it’s so important.
No, you don’t need to cite facts that are widely known or considered common knowledge.
Choosing the right citation style depends on your field of study, the type of work you’re producing, and the guidelines specified by your institution or publisher. Let’s explore how to make that choice.
APA in-text citations typically follow the author-date format. For example:
2. Match Your Discipline: Different fields favor different citation styles. For example:
Failing to cite sources may lead to accusations of plagiarism, which can result in academic or professional consequences.
Knowing "how can I cite" correctly often starts with selecting the appropriate citation style. Here’s how you can decide: