Commas: Essential and Nonessential Elements
The little comma wields a lot of power . . . Read More
Posts related to writing tips
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… Read More
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… Read More
How does the MLA capitalize names of academic degrees?
The MLA follows Merriam-Webster and lowercases the names of academic degrees. Read More
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. Read More
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… Read More
Impact as a Verb
The MLA recommends restricting the use of impact as a verb . . . Read More
This Can Be Confusing
Chances are, you've begun many sentences with This Read More
When is it OK to start a sentence with a coordinating conjunction?
You can use a comma or a dash to connect these pairs of sentences, but writing them separately is not incorrect. It is looked upon… Read More
When should a beverage name be capitalized?
If the beverage is a brand name or a unique recipe title or includes a proper noun, capitalize it: Frappuccino (a coinage trademarked by Starbucks)… Read More