How do I cite scriptural writings? And when do I use italics in referring to them?

Create a works-cited-list entry for scriptural writings as you would for any other source: follow the MLA format template. In general, begin with the… Read More

I am citing two editions of the same novel. How do I order the entries in the list of works cited, and how do I distinguish the editions in the in-text citation?

Order the entries by the most important unique piece of identifying information. This is usually the date. You can list entries either in chronological order… Read More

How do I document an interview in MLA style?

Create a works-cited-list entry for an interview as you would for any other source: follow the MLA format template. In general, treat the person… Read More

When a work by three or more authors is mentioned in the text of a research paper (rather than in a parenthetical citation), should the names of all the authors be included or only the first one, followed by et al.?

Reserve the use of the abbreviation et al. for the list of works cited and parenthetical citations. In the text, spell out the authors’ names… Read More

Does the MLA still recommend the use of hanging indention? I don’t always see hanging indentions on The MLA Style Center.

Hanging indention is still the preferred way to distinguish entries in the list of works cited. In its formatting guidelines and in section 2.7… Read More

When citing a work in a database (e.g., Academic Search Complete) searched on the website EBSCOhost, should the container be the database or the website?

EBSCOhost is a research platform that contains, among other research tools and features, multiple databases. At EBSCOhost, visitors can search at once for articles in… Read More

Is a new edition of the MLA Style Manual going to be published?

No. The MLA Style Manual will be taken out of print. The system of documentation explained in the eighth edition of the MLA Handbook is… Read More

Are notes compatible with MLA style?

Yes. Two kinds of notes are suitable with the parenthetical citations used in MLA style: content notes and bibliographic notes. These may be styled either… Read More

Dictionary 101

Beware the spelling checker! Here's what you need to know about using a dictionary . . . Read More

A Regrettable Shortcut: The Pseudo Conjunction With

The use of with as a pseudo conjunction weakens prose . . . Read More