Are you looking for tips on how to write MLA format essays? Writing in the MLA style is a challenge for many students, but it doesn’t have to be. This article will provide you with all the information you need to know about MLA format essays, including how to format the paper, how to use in-text citations, and how to cite your sources. Read on to learn more about MLA format essays and get started on your next project!
What is MLA Format?
MLA format is a style of writing developed by the Modern Language Association. It is primarily used for academic research papers in the humanities, such as English and History. It is also used in other disciplines, such as anthropology and sociology. MLA format has specific rules for how to format your paper, how to cite sources, and how to use in-text citations. It also has a specific format for creating a Works Cited page at the end of your paper.
Formatting an MLA Paper
When formatting an MLA paper, there are a few important guidelines to keep in mind. First, the paper should be double-spaced and have one-inch margins on all sides. The font should be Times New Roman in 12-point size. The header should include your last name and the page number, which should be on the right side of the paper. The title should be centered and written in title case. Finally, the paper should include a page header, which is the same as the title but in all caps.
Using In-Text Citations
When you use a source in your paper, you must cite it in-text. This means that you should include a parenthetical citation after the quote or paraphrase. The in-text citation should include the author’s last name and the page number. If you are citing a direct quote, you should also include the year the source was published. For example: “According to Smith (2020, p. 10), the moon is the only natural satellite of Earth.”
Citing Sources in the Works Cited Page
In addition to citing sources in-text, you must also include a Works Cited page at the end of your paper. This page should include a list of all the sources you used in your research. The list should be alphabetized by the author’s last name. Each source should include the author’s name, the title of the source, the publisher, the year of publication, and the page numbers (if applicable). For example: Smith, John. The Moon: A Natural Satellite of Earth. Academic Press, 2020, pp. 9-10.
Three Sample MLA Format Essays
Below are three sample MLA format essays that demonstrate proper MLA formatting. The first essay is an example of an argumentative essay, which includes citations. The second essay is an example of a compare and contrast essay, which also includes citations. The third essay is an example of a narrative essay, which does not include citations.
Example 1: Argumentative Essay
The moon is the only natural satellite of Earth, and it has been an important part of human culture for centuries. According to Smith (2020, p. 10), the moon has been used as a source of inspiration for art and literature, as well as a symbol of love and romance. However, not everyone agrees that the moon is a helpful source of inspiration. For example, Jones (2018, p. 15) argues that the moon can be a source of distraction and can actually hinder creativity. While both sides of the argument have merit, it is clear that the moon is still a significant part of human culture and has been for centuries.
Example 2: Compare and Contrast Essay
The moon is a popular subject for both art and literature, and it has been used as a source of inspiration for centuries. However, the two mediums approach the moon in different ways. In art, the moon is often depicted as a beautiful and peaceful object. For example, in Monet’s painting La Lune (1873), the moon is shown as a glowing orb in a night sky. In literature, on the other hand, the moon is often used as a symbol of loneliness or despair. For example, in Sylvia Plath’s poem “Moonrise” (1962), the moon is a symbol of depression and anxiety.
Example 3: Narrative Essay
The moon has always been a source of fascination for me, ever since I was a child. On summer nights, I would lie in the grass and gaze at the moon, marveling at its beauty and mystery. To me, the moon was a symbol of possibility and hope, and it filled me with a sense of wonder. Even now, as an adult, I still find myself drawn to the moon. Whenever I need a reminder of possibility, I look up at the night sky and find comfort in the sight of the moon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About MLA Format Essays
Q: How do I cite a source in MLA format?
A: When citing a source in MLA format, you should include the author’s last name and the page number in a parenthetical citation. If you are citing a direct quote, you should also include the year the source was published. For example: (Smith 2020, p. 10).
Q: How do I format a paper in MLA style?
A: When formatting an MLA paper, you should use double-spacing and one-inch margins on all sides. The font should be Times New Roman in 12-point size. The header should include your last name and the page number, and the title should be centered and written in title case. Finally, the paper should include a page header, which is the same as the title but in all caps.
Q: Do I need to include a Works Cited page?
A: Yes, you should include a Works Cited page at the end of your paper. This page should include a list of all the sources you used in your research, listed in alphabetical order by the author’s last name. Each source should include the author’s name, the title of the source, the publisher, the year of publication, and the page numbers (if applicable).
Q: How do I cite a website in MLA format?
A: When citing a website in MLA format, you should include the author’s name (if available), the title of the page, the name of the website, the date the page was published (if available), and the URL. For example: Smith, John. “The Moon: A Natural Satellite of Earth.” Academic Press, academicpress.com, 2020, https://academicpress.com/the-moon-a-natural-satellite-of-earth/.
Q: How do I cite a book in MLA format?
A: When citing a book in MLA format, you should include the author’s name, the title of the book, the publisher, the year of publication, and the page numbers (if applicable). For example: Smith, John. The Moon: A Natural Satellite of Earth. Academic Press, 2020, pp. 9-10.
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