Understanding MLA Style Citations

Introduction

• This lecture focuses on MLA style citations for research papers.
• Separate video available for creating a works cited page.
• MLA is commonly used in English classes.
• Importance of citing sources to avoid plagiarism.

Plagiarism

• Defined as using someone else's work or ideas as your own, intentionally or unintentionally.
• Can lead to serious consequences like expulsion.
• When in doubt, always cite your sources.

What is MLA?

• Stands for Modern Language Association.
• Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab) is a recommended resource for citation guidance.

Common Source Types

• Focus on books and online articles.
• Other types of sources require different citation methods.

In-Text Citations

• Author Name and Page Number:
  • Author's name must appear in the sentence or in parentheses.
  • Page number always goes in parentheses.
• Quotations:
  • Introduce author at the beginning or end.
  • Period goes outside the parenthesis.
• Paraphrasing:
  • Similar to direct quotes but without quotation marks.
  • Author's name and page number still required.

Exceptions in Citing

• Common phrases or proverbs do not need citation but require quotation marks.

Citing Online Sources

• Becoming more common in academic papers.
• Use author's name; if unavailable, use website name.
• No need for full URL in text.
• Scholarly articles should clearly indicate the author.

Style Points for In-Text Citations

• Short Quotes:
  • Use regular format for four lines of prose or less.
• Block Quotes:
  • For longer quotes, indent, and remove quotation marks.
  • Period goes before the parenthetical citation.

Additional Rules

• Use brackets to add words to a quote for clarity.

Conclusion

• Check the Purdue OWL website for detailed guidance.
• Keeping a handbook is beneficial as referencing guidelines are complex.
• Following citation rules is crucial for paper acceptance.