How do I cite a chapter in a book written by a single author?

Create a works-cited-list entry only for the book. If you want your readers to know the chapter titles, you can provide them in your text:… Read More

Verbs with Alternative Subjects

Should you use a singular or plural verb after alternative subjects—that is, two nouns joined by or—when one is singular and the other plural? A common practice is to have the verb agree in number with the second subject of the pair—in other words, with the noun that is closer to the verb . . . Read More

Which element on the MLA template applies to the uploader of an online work, like a video?

The name of the person or organization responsible for uploading the video should be listed in the “Other contributors” slot regardless of whether the uploader appears… Read More

How do I punctuate quoted dialogue from a novel?

How you punctuate quoted dialogue from a novel will depend on what you are quoting and how you are quoting it. See the three most… Read More

How do I cite from a play that has both verse and prose sections?

Citing from a play that has both verse and prose sections—whether the play is William Shakespeare’s Macbeth or August Wilson’s Fences—is no different from citing… Read More

Finding Publication Facts Online: An Unusual Case

Finding publication information on a website or other digital source can be a challenge . . . Read More

How do I incorporate lists into my essay in MLA style?

In humanities essays, lists are generally run into the text rather than set vertically. A colon is often used to introduce a run-in list:… Read More

If I am quoting the first few words of one line of poetry and the last few words of the next line of poetry, should I use two sets of ellipses with a slash between them?

Yes. Clarity is worth the trouble of more punctuation. Let’s say you quote the following two lines of poetry: He had forty-two boxes, all carefully… Read More

How do I cite a sign?

If you quote unique language from a sign, create a works-cited-list entry for it. A sign advises you to “shout, wave arms, throw stones” if you… Read More

If an online source becomes defunct before I turn in or publish my paper, what do I do?

The primary goal of documentation is not to ensure perpetual access to a source but to verify the publication facts of the version you consulted. Read More