MLA or the Modern Language Association format of citation is considered to be one of the critical and convoluted forms of referencing style. Given its complex format and elements to be considered while citing sources, students often feel the need for referring to MLA referencing guides.
Now, in case, you too are on the same page, looking for MLA referencing style guides to help you overcome all challenges with precision, invest some time in reading this blog.
§ Understanding the core components
This is the first element of concern when it comes to getting the hang of MLA referencing and citation. There are several components to be kept in mind while going about the referencing format.
Here’s a list of the same for your reference.
Author name(s)
Title of the source
Title of container
Other contributors
Version
Numbers
Publisher
Publication date
Location of publication
Remember, each of the aforementioned components is equally important to be mentioned while citing MLA sources. You cannot afford to miss out any of these elements while adding references.
§ The MLA Referencing Basics
Now that you are aware of the core components to be considered while adding references according to the MLA format, it’s time to get your basics straight. There are certain areas to be prioritized and conventions to be observed while citing sources according to the MLA style.
So, learn about them here and implement your knowledge in the final draft.
Here you go.
You must begin the referencing on a new page, at the end of the document.
Arrange all components of referencing in an alphabetical manner. You must initiate it by mentioning the authors’ names, followed by rest of the components as mentioned above.
Remember, all entries must be double spaced.
If you are citing multiple sources or works by the same author, then make sure that the first reference contains the full name.
Going about the MLA in-text citations
This is yet another crucial area of concern when it comes to adding in-text citations. So, here are the key essentials one must consider while going about the convention.
In-text citation in MLA format should directly refer to a particular quote or paraphrased version of an already existing work.
In-text citations must contain the first word of the reference.
Also, take note of the fact that MLA in-text citations must come directly after the quote, in parenthetical format or in natural pause.
So, these were the basic guidelines one must follow in order to cite sources according to the Modern Language Association format. In case, you would still find the task too complicated to overcome, rely on the expertise of reputable and advanced MLA citation generator online.