1. Alphabetical Order: Entries are typically arranged alphabetically by the author's last name (or by title if the author is unknown).
2. Author Information:
* Author: Full name (last name first)
* Title: Full title (italicized or underlined)
* Publication Information: This includes the publisher, date of publication, and any other relevant details (like volume or issue number for journals).
3. Source Type: Different types of sources (books, articles, websites) have specific formatting requirements.
4. Consistency: Maintain consistent formatting for all entries within the bibliography.
Example of MLA format for a book entry:
Author: Smith, John.
Title: The History of the World.
Publication Information: New York: Penguin Books, 2010.
Example of APA format for a journal article entry:
Author: Jones, A., & Brown, B. (2020). The impact of social media on mental health. *Journal of Psychology*, 125(3), 25-38.
Here are some important things to remember:
* Hanging Indentation: The first line of each entry is flush left, while subsequent lines are indented (usually half an inch).
* Capitalization: Titles are typically capitalized according to specific style guide rules.
* Spacing: Use double-spacing between entries.
* URLs: Include the full URL for online sources.
* Referencing: Use footnotes or endnotes to directly cite sources within your text.
Which style guide to use:
* MLA: Commonly used in the humanities and literature.
* APA: Used in social sciences, psychology, and education.
* Chicago: Used in history, political science, and some other fields.
Remember:
* Always consult your style guide for specific formatting rules.
* Use a citation generator or online resources to help you create accurate bibliography entries.
* If you are unsure about any part of the formatting, ask your professor or instructor for guidance.