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

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

How do you punctuate a question that quotes a question?

Do not use two question marks. Use only the question mark contained in the quotation: Which Shakespeare character asked, “Is this a dagger which I… Read More

Does MLA style capitalize ancient when it precedes Greece or Greek?

No. We follow Merriam-Webster, which indicates that the terms ancient and classical are not capitalized when they are attached to names of languages or periods. … Read More

How do I style genus and species names, such as Homo sapiens, in MLA style?

MLA style was developed to be used by writers in the humanities, so we defer to our colleagues at The Chicago Manual of Style regarding how… Read More