Attributive Nouns; or, Why There Is Sometimes No Apostrophe in Terms Such As Teachers Union
By Jennifer RappaportThe possessive of plural nouns ending in s is formed by adding an apostrophe . . .
Published 15 August 2019
Commas: Essential and Nonessential Elements
By Barney LatimerThe little comma wields a lot of power . . .
Published 13 August 2019
How should I format math equations in my paper?
For guidance on formatting mathematical expressions, we defer to our colleagues at The Chicago Manual of Style (“Mathematics”). For guidance on citing mathematical theories, see our post.
Work Cited
“Mathematics in Type.” The Chicago Manual of Style, 17th ed., sec. 12, U of Chicago P, 2017, www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/book/ed17/part2/
ch12/toc.html.
Published 9 August 2019
How does the MLA capitalize names of generations?
In our publications, we follow the recommendations in The Chicago Manual of Style (“Generation”). We generally lowercase generation names such as baby boomers and millennials, but we capitalize generation names that include letters, such as Generation X, Generation Y, and Generation Z. Student writers could follow Chicago as well or consult another reliable source, such as Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary.
Work Cited
“Generation.” The Chicago Manual of Style, 17th ed., sec. 8.42, U of Chicago P, 2017, www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/book/ed17/part2/ch08/psec042.html.
Published 5 August 2019
How does the MLA capitalize names of academic degrees?
The MLA follows Merriam-Webster and lowercases the names of academic degrees.
Published 1 August 2019
How should I style the name of an earthwork, such as the Great Serpent Mound?
Names of earthworks, like names of buildings, should not be italicized:
We took a trip to see the Great Serpent Mound.
. . .
Published 30 July 2019
Is it acceptable to use superscript for the letters following a numeral when I am listing numbered editions?
When listing numbered editions (e.g., 2nd, 3rd, 4th), most publishers, including the MLA, do not set the letters after the numeral superscript, but an instructor may allow students to do do.
Published 26 July 2019
Supporting Students in the Transition from High School to College Writing
By Ruth LiThe transition from high school to college writing can be challenging . . .
Published 20 June 2019
Impact as a Verb
By Erika SuffernThe MLA recommends restricting the use of impact as a verb . . .
Published 13 June 2019
This Can Be Confusing
By Barney LatimerChances are, you’ve begun many sentences with This . . .
Published 11 June 2019