MLA and Research Writing Help

When we write for school, we join an ongoing academic conversation. Citing shows how our ideas build on the work of others and which ideas are our own. It demonstrates the research we’ve done and our understanding of the topic. In most cases, we use a short in-text citation in our writing and list full details on a Works Cited page so readers can find the sources.

We cite any time we use another person’s words, ideas, or creative work. This includes direct quotes, summaries, and paraphrases. Cite historical, statistical, and scientific facts that are not common knowledge. Common knowledge is something most well-informed people already know (example: “The Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean”). If you’re unsure whether something is common knowledge → When in doubt, cite it.

MLA Works Cited and In-Text Citations:

• Purdue OWL MLA Formatting and Style Guide

• MLA Works Cited

• Interactive MLA Template

Citation Managers:

• NoodleTools
• EasyBib

Sample Papers:

• Purdue Owl Paper and Works Cited example
• MLA Sample Paper