Common Errors

Speak with authority  Avoid conversational language and tone. Do not speak in first or second person.  Do not use language such as “ I believe or I think” or “you can do this” or “ You will be able to..” Do not address the reader directly.

No Glitter  Do not use giant fonts in your title or decorative items on your paper. It is acceptable to employ appropriate photographs or charts but not cosmetic items which just take up space.

Consult your text:  Use the guidelines in the MLA section of your texts for rules concerning in-text citations and works cited.  Make sure that the paper’s format follows the procedures described in your text in regard to font size, spacing and placement of page numbers.  Consult your text for rules concerning mechanics such as spelling, punctuation, and rules concerning grammar.

Consult Your Text:  Consult the sample MLA papers in both texts. Compare the appearance of your paper to these samples.  You are responsible to use the text to locate the information you need. It is there.

Edit and Revise  Check your paper several times for errors.  Consult the checklists in your texts for revision and editing.  Compare your paper to the standards in the rubric.

Works Cited:  Follow the precise directions for the Works Cited page.  It is not considered to be one of the pages counted in adherence to the proscribed length. The paper must be a full 3 pages at a minimum. It can be longer to a degree, but not shorter.  The “Works Cited page” is a separate page from the text of your paper.

In Text Citations:  These are not optional.  Consult your text for the MLA rules.

Formal Language  Use formal language and tone.  No dialect, text speech or shortened speech.  Use specific, appropriate vocabulary.  Do not employ a conversational tone.

Do Not Give Up.  If the grade you received is not the one you would like, then address the errors.  Listen, pay attention, and complete your assignments.  Remember that who you are in the classroom is considered in your class participation.  You can improve your writing.

Responsibility  You are responsible for your success. College work is held to a higher standard, but you are capable of doing very well. Exceed all expectations. Rise to the occasion. Fulfill your potential. Keep a strong positive attitude!