Core Elements of an MLA Citation (9th Edition)

MLA 9th edition emphasizes a template of core elements that should be included in a citation if available and relevant. These elements are presented in a specific order, each followed by the punctuation mark shown:

  1. Author. (Last Name, First Name.)
  2. Title of Source. (Title of Book, "Title of Article.")
  3. Title of Container, (e.g., Journal Title, Website Name, Title of Collection)
  4. Other Contributors, (e.g., edited by, translated by, directed by)
  5. Version, (e.g., 9th ed., King James Version)
  6. Number, (e.g., vol. 2, no. 4)
  7. Publisher, (e.g., Penguin Random House, U of Chicago P)
  8. Publication Date, (e.g., 2021, 15 May 2020)
  9. Location. (e.g., pp. 15-25, doi:xxxx, URL)

Not all sources will have all these elements. Include the elements that are available and relevant to the source you are citing.

Key Takeaways for Your Works Cited List

  • Alphabetize: Order entries alphabetically by the first author's last name.
  • Hanging Indent: Indent the second and subsequent lines of each entry by ½ inch.
  • Specific Capitalization: Follow the rules for capitalizing titles of works carefully.
  • Accuracy is Crucial: Double-check all information (authors, dates, titles, journal names, page numbers, DOIs, URLs) for accuracy.
  • Consistency Matters: Ensure that you apply these formatting rules consistently throughout your entire Works Cited list.
By paying close attention to the order, indentation, and capitalization in your MLA Works Cited list, you demonstrate meticulous attention to detail and adhere to the established standards of academic writing. This makes your work more accessible and credible to your audience.