In what order should I list names in the “Other contributors” slot?

List them in the order given in the source. If the names are not presented hierarchically, the order is up to you. You may wish to… Read More

How do I punctuate a sentence in parentheses that follows another sentence?

If a sentence in parentheses follows a sentence, place a period before the closing parenthesis: I went to an exhibit at Vito Schnabel’s gallery. (Vito… Read More

Can my students use MLA format for papers on social science topics?

Yes. The MLA’s system of documentation allows students to learn the principles of citation and the importance of source literacy and can be used for… Read More

How should I let my reader know that I have used modern spelling for quotations from a work written in the early modern period?

If you use modern spelling in quotations from a work written in the early modern period, you should let your readers know in a note… Read More

Should I indicate in my works-cited-list entry that an article is a cover story?

No. But if the information is useful for your argument—for example, because it signals the importance of the article’s topic—you can mention it in your… Read More

Should media in reference to mass media be treated as a singular or plural noun?

The MLA follows Merriam-Webster, which states that media can be treated as singular or plural when the reference is to mass media (“Media”). So you may choose… Read More

After I’ve given a person’s name in full, should I use last name only thereafter even if I am writing a work with chapters rather than an essay?

Yes, generally follow this guideline, especially for frequently mentioned people or those who are the subject of the work. Read More

Why are internal capital letters retained in titles of websites in MLA style?

When special typography is strongly associated with a brand, we retain it (e.g., SoundCloud, YouTube). The Chicago Manual of Style supports this practice, advising, “[N]ames that… Read More

Should a project labeled “thesis” that is submitted for a doctoral degree in the United Kingdom be referred to as a PhD thesis or a PhD dissertation in my works-cited list?

In the United States, the written project submitted by a candidate for a doctoral degree is called a dissertation. In the United Kingdom, it is… Read More

Should I reproduce emojis in my essay?

In general it is not necessary to reproduce emojis. However, if an emoji is important to a point you are making in your essay, you… Read More