Why cite?
All academic writing requires citations for ethical participation in scholarly works. Citing your sources properly is important for many reasons:
Citations give credit.
- Giving credit to the original source rewards other scholars for the hard work and creativity they contribute to advancements in their fields. Recognition inspires us to reach new heights. In some fields, citations even lead to career advancement.
Citations establish your credibility.
- The more you know about your topic, the more credible your arguments become. By citing your sources, you prove that you have researched existing information and multiple viewpoints. In turn, readers will see that your theories and ideas are well-supported.
Citations help your readers.
- Citations are like a roadmap to the sources you used. Sometimes seeing a quote in its original context helps readers understand it better. Citations can also guide your readers to more information about your topic.
Citations allow you to ethically participate in an academic conversation.
- No scholar works in isolation. We develop our ideas by learning about the work of others and researching existing information. In turn, your work contributes to this ongoing intellectual conversation and supports new research.
Source: Adjusted from Middlebury Libraries Citation & Style Guide.
About MLA Style
MLA stands for the Modern Language Association, and its style guidelines have been assisting authors since 1951. In 2016, the MLA Handbook introduced a template using core elements in an effort to simplify much of the documentation process in MLA format. In 2021, the ninth edition was expanded with considerably more content and visuals.
MLA Citation Manuals
MLA Handbook by ISBN: 9781603293518Publication Date: 2021-04-22The ninth edition of the MLA Handbook is a textbook and reference guide that offers student writers and writing instructors guidance on creating works-cited-list entries in MLA style using the template of core elements. It features advice on punctuation, grammar, inclusive language, formatting research papers, and in-text citations. Includes an appendix of sample works-cited-list entries, illustrations, and an index.
MLA Style & Grammar Guidelines
- Ask the MLA (MLA Style Center)Browse questions and answers to common MLA style guidelines.
- MLA Citations by Format (MLA Style Center)Examples and guidance for how to cite five basic source types. Click on an entry to get more information, as well as links to posts with more examples.
- Citation Examples in MLA Style (PDF)From the MLA Handbook Quick Guide.
Zotero Citation Manager
Zotero is one of a number of citation managers that can help you save and organize your citations as well as generate bibliographies.
To find more about setting up Zotero, please view the video below. You can also visit our Creating Bibliographies Guide to find out more about Zotero and other citation managers.
