Research Style & Usage MLA Style General Paper Format In-Text Citations Works Cited List

MLA versus APA There are various formats for research papers; however, the two most commonly used forms are: MLA: Modern Language Association APA: America Psychological Association

MLA versus APA APA style is the standard used for writing in the social sciences, psychology, sociology, criminology, health sciences, business, economics, and education. MLA style is the standard used for writing in the humanities (literature, history, philosophy, art, etc.)

General Paper Format Basic Guidelines Paper and Margins: Use Standard 8.5” X 11” with margins of 1” on all sides. Spacing: Double-space every line, including Work Cited. Numbering: Number all pages, including the first page in the upper right-hand corner of the page.

General Paper Format Heading and Title Do not create a separate title page. At the top left corner of the first page, type your: -name -your instructor’s name -the course name -the date (Double-space these lines). Place your title one double-space below your heading, centered on the page. Do not underline the title.

MLA Documentation Style To document sources, you must cite in two places— in-text and on a list of works cited. In-text: Provided in the paper and may include the author’s name, the title of work, and a page number along with the quoted or paraphrased information. Works Cited: A list of your resources along with their complete publication information located at the end of your paper.

MLA In-Text Citation Citations are made with a combination of signal phrases and parenthetical references. A signal phrase indicates that something taken from a source (a quotation, summary, paraphrase, or fact) is about to be used. Usually, the signal phrase includes the author’s name.

MLA In-Text Citation Author Known Christine Hauhney reports that shortly after Japan made it illegal to use a handheld phone while driving, “accidents caused by using the phones dropped by 75 percent” (A8). -OR- Most states do not keep adequate records on the number of times cell phones are a factor in accidents; as of December 2000, only ten states were trying to keep such records (Sundeen 2).

MLA In-Text Citation Author Unknown As of 2001, at least three hundred towns and municipalities had considered legislation regulating use of cell phones while driving (“Lawmakers” 2).

Creating the Works Cited Page After you’ve typed the conclusion to your paper, scroll down to a new page. Center and then type the words WORKS CITED A WORKS CITED page is double-spaced just like the rest of your paper

Citing a Variety of Sources on the Work Cited Page Book with Author(s) Robb, David M. Art in the Western World. Dubuque. New York: Harper and Row, Magazine Article Hughes, Robert. “The Artist: Pablo Picasso.” Time. 8 Jun. 1998:

Citing a Variety of Sources on the Work Cited Page Encyclopedia Article McCully, Marilyn. “Picasso.” The New Encyclopedia Brittanica: Macropaedia. 15 th ed Films Rebel Without a Cause. Dir. Nicholas Ray. With James Dean, Natalie Wood, Sal Mineo, and Deniis Hopper. Warner, 1955.

Citing a Variety of Sources on the Work Cited Page Internet Peace, James. “Writing Effective Introductions.” Purdue Online. 27 May