The Writing Center 

MLA and APA Citation Guide

 

What is MLA format? 

MLA (Modern Language Association) style is most commonly used to write papers and cite sources within the liberal arts and humanities. 

 

What is APA format?

APA (American Psychological Association) style is most commonly used to cite sources within the social sciences.

 

Why do we cite sources in our writing?

When you reference someone else's words or ideas in your writing, you cannot take credit for those thoughts (DUH--that would be cheating). Citations, both in the paper and in the works cited page, help to secure a person's intellectual propery. 

 

*NOTE: Regardless of the class you're taking, always clarify with your instructor the citation style required for his or her course and/or assignments.  

 

Helpful Links

Purdue Owl

MLA Citation PowerPoint