How to Document English in the MLA Format

Creating proper documentation in works written in the English language is easily done when you follow appropriate style guides. Modern Language Association format allows writers to cite every possible type of document, even if a specific rubric for that document is not available. By understanding the inherent nature of the work -- whether it is a journal, a chapter in an anthology, a poem, or an Internet video -- you can properly document a source using MLA format.

Things You'll Need

  • MLA reference guide in print or online
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine what kind of source you wish to document. Different types of sources include books, journals, chapters, government sources, and videos. Be as specific as possible. A chapter in a book, for example, is different than a work in an anthology.

    • 2

      Locate the necessary information. You will always need the author's name, the title of the document, the publisher, the year published, and the medium of publication (print or online). If you are citing a journal article, you will need the title of the article as well as the formal title of the journal, the volume and issue number, and the journal editor's name.

    • 3

      Organize the information according to MLA standards. A general book will appear as follows: Lastname, Firstname. Title of Book. Place of Publication: Publisher, Year of Publication. Medium of Publication.

      A electronic source will appear as such: Editor, author, or compiler name (if available). Name of Site. Version number. Name of institution/organization affiliated with the site (sponsor or publisher), date of resource creation (if available). Medium of publication. Date of access.

    • 4

      Organize the works cited on their own, separate page. All entries should be double-spaced and listed in alphabetical order.

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