Understanding Works Cited in MLA Format

As a 15-year-old student, it's important to learn how to properly cite your sources when writing essays and research papers. The Modern Language Association (MLA) format is one of the most commonly used citation styles in the humanities. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create a Works Cited page in MLA format.

Step 1: Gather Your Sources

Before you can create your Works Cited page, you need to collect all the sources you’ve used in your research, such as books, articles, and websites.

Step 2: Format Your Works Cited Page

The Works Cited page should be on its own page, at the end of your paper. Title it “Works Cited” and center the title at the top of the page.

Step 3: Order Your Entries

Entries should be listed in alphabetical order by the author's last name. If no author is available, use the title of the work instead.

Step 4: Structure Your Citations

Each entry should follow a specific format. Here are some common formats:

• Book: Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Publication Date.
• Article: Last Name, First Name.