The MLA Format

Avoiding Plagiarism and Documenting Sources

What is the MLA Format?

The MLA format is a writing style established by the Modern Language Association that governs:

• The Paper Format
• Punctuation and Quotations
• Documentation of Sources and Works Cited

It is used for research papers in many classes at Richland College, including English, but it is not the only research paper format. Examples of other paper formats include APA (American Psychological Association), Chicago, and Turabian.

You can learn more about the MLA Format in the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, available at your library reference desk.

Why Is the MLA Format Important?

The MLA Format is important because it provides a consistent format for writing papers. It also guides us in documenting and citing our sources. You must cite your sources in order to...

• Lend authority and credibility to your work
• Allow your readers to cross-reference your sources
• Acknowledge your academic debts
• Avoid Plagiarism.

What is Plagiarism?

If you have not done so already, complete Acadia University's online plagiarism tutorial, "You Quote It, You Note it." When given the chance to select a player, choose Maiko for situations similar to the ones you will encounter at Richland College.

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