How do I indicate that material in a source I’m quoting has been redacted?

If a source you are quoting from includes names, words, or even entire passages that have been redacted—for legal reasons or to avoid offensive language,… Read More

The Rhyme without the Reason: What’s Wrong with Sneak Peak

Understand the origins of peak, peek, and pique Read More

How can I distinguish a born-digital photograph from an analog photograph in a works-cited-list entry?

You may distinguish a born-digital photograph from an analog photograph in a works-cited-list entry by giving the format of the photograph at the end of the entry. Read More

How do I cite a comment thread in a Facebook group?

In a Facebook group, users can create posts that other members of the group can comment on. Comments on a post can then be replied… Read More

How do I cite street art?

How you cite a piece of street art will depend on how you viewed it. In Person If you viewed the street art in person… Read More

Distinguishing Tropes, Figures, Themes, and Motifs

Learn how to use the terms trope, figure, theme, and motif. Read More

How do I cite the prologue of a play?

When the prologue—or author’s preface—to a play is in prose, provide a page number for a quotation from or reference to the work if it… Read More

Should I include a religious leader’s title in my works-cited-list entry?

Following the guidance found in section 2.83 of the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook, religious titles, such as Reverend or Saint, should generally be… Read More

When referring to a person’s age, do I use numerals or words?

To decide whether to use numerals or words to refer to a person’s age, follow the advice in sections 2.127 and 2.128 of the MLA… Read More

How do I cite generative AI in MLA style?

Note: We published an ​updated and revised version of this post in August 2025. See that post for our most up-to-date guidance on citing… Read More