Using MLA In-Text Citations

by admin on May 6, 2009

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  • The works cited list at the end of your paper is not enough.
  • You must indicate which works you used in writing your paper.
  • You must indicate what you took from each source.
  • You must indicate where in the work the information came from.
  • Use the author’s last name and a page reference.
    • If the source reference includes more than one author, give the last name of each person listed:  (Hershey, Kemp, and Oberweis 109-119).
    • If the work is only listed by a title, give the shortened or full title in lieu of the author: (The Best of Light Ice Creams).
    • If you have more than one work by the same author, you must add the shortened or full title after the last name. 
    • If the author’s last name appears in the preceding sentence(s), you need not repeat the name…as long as the reference is clearly attributed to the author. 
  • Place citation as near as possible to the material documented. 
  • When in doubt, cite the information.  Anything not common knowledge must be attributed, even if it is paraphrased. 
  • When you switch sources, include a citation to show where one source leaves off and the next begins.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }

Juli August 19, 2009 at 6:46 pm

I just found your site as I was searching for ways to explain voice to my freshmen comp. students. After reading your post on voice, I had to keep reading (loved the post on clarity). I’ve just subscribed. Thanks!

admin September 22, 2009 at 11:27 am

Hi Juli,
Thanks for visiting, and I’m glad that you found the information helpful!
-Lindsay

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