This MLA format example serves to help students to define the referencing style. For example, when learners get their assignments, they may not define the writing format, losing some points on final grades. In this case, MLA style has its features, such as the unique title of a paper, page numbers, the format of in-text citations, and the Works Cited page. Basically, this MLA format example will show students how to define the writing style. A detailed analysis of these aspects ensures that their descriptive traits are easily recognizable to the audience.
Modern Language Association or MLA Format
The Modern Language Association (MLA) referencing style has some unique and quickly identifiable features that distinguish it from paper formats. Basically, the main features of MLA format example cover the unique form of the title, page numbers in the header, in-text citations, and Works Cited to reference sources.
1. Title
Firstly, MLA paper format does not have a separate MLA title page for details of the student and instructor. Besides, this detail is the first signal that a paper follows the conventions of MLA format example.
2. Page Numbers
Secondly, the paper includes the author’s last name with the page number. It is consistent with the rest of the paper. In the MLA format paper, the page numbering formulation is different from other referencing styles.
3. In-Text Citations
Then, in-text citations are specific markers of MLA formatting style. When readers see it, it is conclusive evidence that authors of such papers follow MLA style. Hence, basic components in in-text citations are specific identifiers of this referencing style.
4. Works Cited
Finally, writers list the complete source details on a separate page titled as “Works Cited.” The title for this citation entries’ list is particular for MLA style because it uses specific words. Besides, it differs from more common variations of “References” that are much difficult to distinguish.
Example of a Title Page in MLA Format
Incorporating the student and lecturer’s details on the first page of an essay compensates for the lack of a title page. In this case, students or other writers place the author’s name, instructor’s name, course name, and date at the upper left corner on the first page. The author’s name is the first detail that appears at the top of a page followed by the remaining details. However, the instructor’s instructions can cause variation from traditional rules by requesting the inclusion of a title page or providing a different location, for example, the upper right corner. In turn, the appearance of the first page in a traditional MLA format example is provided below:
MLA Format Example for Page Numbers
Page numbers may signal that a person follows MLA style for referencing a paper. Basically, the page numbering system used in MLA style involves the creation of a header. In this case, it contains the author’s last name and page numbers that are separated by a single space in the upper right-hand corner. Authors use this format in labeling all the pages in a document without any variations. For instance, headers should appear in this form: [Surname] [Page Number] or Jones 1. It is not unusual for page numbers or the last name to be omitted on the first page. Moreover, there are situations where t instructors may request that page numbers should not appear on the first page. Basically, the page numbering system could suggest that MLA format example has been used. However, learners should not consider this information as conclusive evidence.
Author-Page Format in MLA
MLA format citation employs an author-page format. The author-page style can occur in two forms: the parenthetical form where both author and page number appear in the parentheses and a variation where the author’s name appears in the sentence while the page number is in parentheses. In this case, readers must be aware of different forms of including in-text citations in an essay by checking MLA format example. Additionally, the author-page format does not necessarily require a human author but may be substituted by the name of an organization or a shortened title in MLA citation. Similarly, the absence of page numbers may be substituted by other locators, such as paragraph and chapter numbers. Moreover, the author-page MLA in-text citation format is a definitive signal that MLA style is used in a paper. Hence, examples of each of the variations mentioned are provided below:
1. Parenthetical Citation:
The first plane to crash . . . resulted in an investigation (Jones 8).
2. Author’s Name in a Sentence:
According to Jones, . . . resulted in an investigation (8).
3. Organization as an Author:
The first plane to crash . . . investigation (Federal Administration Organisation 12).
4. Shortened Title:
The last plane to crash . . . investigation (“History of Planes” 18).
5. No Page Numbers:
The first plane to crash . . . investigation (“History of Planes” par. 70).
MLA Format Example on Works Cited
The MLA Works Cited page is a definitive sign that a paper has been authored using MLA style. In MLA format example, it begins on a new page and is titled “Works Cited” or “Work Cited,” depending on the number of sources used. Also, students should center the title of the Works Cited page. As a result, the MLA Work Cited example is shown below:
Work Cited
Ardolino, Frank. “Tennessee Williams’s The Glass Menagerie.” The Explicator, vol. 68, no. 2, 2010, pp. 131-132. doi:10.1080/00144941003723907.