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How to write abstracts in MLA

Abstracts are usually between 100-250 words or around 5-7 sentences depending on the type. They can include short descriptions of your motivations, objective, methods, findings, discussion, and conclusion of the paper. You can also include why you wrote the paper and why readers should be interested.

APA abstracts have different formatting from MLA abstracts, so do not to use their rules interchangeably.

Why do you need an abstract?

Abstracts allow for a quick summary of your paper for other researchers. Busy researchers don’t have time to read everything, so they rely on the abstract to help them decide whether or not they will read the paper.

Although MLA style doesn’t require an abstract, the MLA style abstract is the most commonly used style in the humanities. If you are writing a paper for a class in literature, religion, philosophy, or other similar subjects, you should use MLA style. Check with your professor to see if an abstract is required for your paper.

Different types of abstracts

There are two different types of abstracts: descriptive and informative.

• Descriptive abstracts are approximately 100 words and give a brief overview of the paper. They do not include a full analysis and may not include the results and/or conclusions.
• Informative abstracts are longer and are approximately 150-250 words. They are a condensed version of your writing that contains information from every part of the paper.

How to write an abstract in MLA style

To write a high-quality abstract in MLA style, you will need an explanation of what research was done and what the outcomes were. Write in a clear, simple, and direct style. The abstract gives readers the information they need to decide whether to read the complete paper or not.

Here are some guidelines for writing a great abstract in MLA style:

• Finish the paper first. While it may be tempting to get a head start on your abstract, you should complete your paper before writing the abstract.
• Review your paper for key points and take notes. One way to take notes is to write one sentence for each paragraph. You should not copy directly from your text since your abstract should have different words and phrases. You do not need to include every detail, and in fact, you should avoid doing so. If you have an outline of your paper, use that as a guide to writing your abstract.
• Give a detailed account of the research methods used in the study and how the results were obtained.
• Provide an account of your findings and what you found as a result of your research.
• If your findings have larger implications, include them in the abstract.
• Condense those main points by summarizing the “who, what, where, and when” of your paper.
• If you don’t have an outline, organize information in the same order as in the paper.
• Write a rough draft of your abstract. Begin your abstract with a clear statement about your thesis and why your readers should care about what you’ve written. Then turn your notes into sentences.
• Avoid using long complicated sentences in your abstract along with ambiguous and unnecessary words and phrases. Remember that your abstract needs to be simple and easy to read.
• Do not include citations or footnotes in your abstract.
• Add transitions to show clear connections between ideas and create a smooth flow to your writing.
• Revise your abstract until it is 5-7 sentences or 250 words or less. Limit the length to one or two paragraphs.
• Proofread your abstract several times to make sure it is free of errors. People will stop reading if they see mistakes, and it will damage your credibility.

Format for an MLA abstract

• Use one-inch margins.
• Double-space the abstract.
• Place the abstract after the title and before the main body of the paper.
• Use one space after punctuation marks.
• Indent the first line of the paragraphs ½ inch from the left margin.
• Use 12-point font such as Times New Roman or Arial.
• Spell out acronyms.
• Include italics instead of quotation marks if you reference a long work in the abstract.

MLA abstract examples

Descriptive abstracts.

• Example 1 on Cannon’s “From Literacy to Literature: Elementary Learning and the Middle English Poet.”
• Example 2 on Sealy-Morris’s “The Rhetoric of the Paneled Page: Comics and Composition Pedagogy.”

Informational abstracts

• Example 1 on O’Neill’s “The Personal Public Sphere of Whitman’s 1840s Journalism.”

Works cited

Cannon, Christopher. “From Literacy to Literature: Elementary Learning and the Middle English Poet.”  PMLA , vol. 129, no. 3, 2014, pp. 349–364.  JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/24769474.

MLA Handbook . 9th ed., Modern Language Association of America, 2021.

O’Neill, Bonnie Carr. “The Personal Public Sphere of Whitman’s 1840s Journalism.”  PMLA , vol. 126, no. 4, 2011, pp. 983–998.   JSTOR , www.jstor.org/stable/41414171.

Sealey-Morris, Gabriel. “The Rhetoric of the Paneled Page: Comics and Composition Pedagogy.”  Composition Studies , vol. 43, no. 1, 2015, pp. 31–50.   JSTOR , www.jstor.org/stable/43501877.

Wallace, Joseph. “How to Write an Abstract.”  MLA Style Center , Modern Language Association of America, 5 Dec. 2018, style.mla.org/how-to-write-an-abstract/.

Published October 25, 2020. Updated July 18, 2021.

By Catherine Sigler. Catherine has a Ph.D. in English Education and has taught college-level writing for 15 years.

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How to Write an Abstract : How to Format a Research Abstract MLA Style with Examples

• How to Format a Research Abstract MLA Style with Examples
• Annotations

MLA Format Research Abstract with Examples

An abstract is a concise summary of a finished research paper that motivates readers to keep reading . It is a reduced form of a lengthy piece of writing that highlights the key points and briefly describes the content and scope of the paper. An abstract in MLA format generally aims to summarize the objective, methods, discussions, and conclusions of a paper.

Abstracts are usually between 100-250 words or around 5-7 sentences depending on the type. They can include short descriptions of your motivations, objective, methods, findings, discussion, and conclusion of the paper. You can also include why you wrote the paper and why readers should be interested.

Why do you need an abstract?

Abstracts allow for a quick summary of your paper for other researchers. Busy researchers don’t have time to read everything, so they rely on the abstract to help them decide whether or not they will read the paper.

Although MLA style doesn’t require an abstract, the MLA style abstract is the most commonly used style in the humanities. If you are writing a paper for a class in literature, religion, philosophy, or other similar subjects, you should use MLA style. Check with your professor to see if an abstract is required for your paper.

Different types of abstracts

There are two different types of abstracts: descriptive and informative.

• Descriptive abstracts are approximately 100 words and give a brief overview of the paper. They do not include a full analysis and may not include the results and/or conclusions.
• Informative abstracts are longer and are approximately 150-250 words. They are a condensed version of your writing that contains information from every part of the paper.

How to write an abstract in MLA style

To write a high-quality abstract in MLA style, you will need an explanation of what research was done and what the outcomes were. Write in a clear, simple, and direct style. The abstract gives readers the information they need to decide whether to read the complete paper or not.

Here are some guidelines for writing a great abstract in MLA style:

• Finish the paper first. While it may be tempting to get a head start on your abstract, you should complete your paper before writing the abstract.
• Review your paper for key points and take notes. One way to take notes is to write one sentence for each paragraph. You should not copy directly from your text since your abstract should have different words and phrases. You do not need to include every detail, and in fact, you should avoid doing so. If you have an outline of your paper, use that as a guide to writing your abstract.
• Give a detailed account of the research methods used in the study and how the results were obtained.
• Provide an account of your findings and what you found as a result of your research.
• If your findings have larger implications, include them in the abstract.
• Condense those main points by summarizing the “who, what, where, and when” of your paper.
• If you don’t have an outline, organize information in the same order as in the paper.
• Write a rough draft of your abstract. Begin your abstract with a clear statement about your thesis and why your readers should care about what you’ve written. Then turn your notes into sentences.
• Avoid using long complicated sentences in your abstract along with ambiguous and unnecessary words and phrases. Remember that your abstract needs to be simple and easy to read.
• Do not include citations or footnotes in your abstract.
• Add transitions to show clear connections between ideas and create a smooth flow to your writing.
• Revise your abstract until it is 5-7 sentences or 250 words or less. Limit the length to one or two paragraphs.
• Proofread your abstract several times to make sure it is free of errors. People will stop reading if they see mistakes, and it will damage your credibility.

Format for an MLA abstract

• Use one-inch margins.
• Double-space the abstract.
• Place the abstract after the title and before the main body of the paper.
• Use one space after punctuation marks.
• Indent the first line of the paragraphs ½ inch from the left margin.
• Use 12-point font such as Times New Roman or Arial.
• Spell out acronyms.
• Include italics instead of quotation marks if you reference a long work in the abstract.

MLA abstract examples

Descriptive abstracts.

• Example 1 on Cannon’s “From Literacy to Literature: Elementary Learning and the Middle English Poet.”
• Example 2 on Sealy-Morris’s “The Rhetoric of the Paneled Page: Comics and Composition Pedagogy.”

Informational abstracts

• Example 1 on O’Neill’s “The Personal Public Sphere of Whitman’s 1840s Journalism.”

Works cited

Cannon, Christopher. “From Literacy to Literature: Elementary Learning and the Middle English Poet.”  PMLA , vol. 129, no. 3, 2014, pp. 349–364.  JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/24769474.

MLA Handbook . 9th ed., Modern Language Association of America, 2021.

O’Neill, Bonnie Carr. “The Personal Public Sphere of Whitman’s 1840s Journalism.”  PMLA , vol. 126, no. 4, 2011, pp. 983–998.   JSTOR , www.jstor.org/stable/41414171.

Sealey-Morris, Gabriel. “The Rhetoric of the Paneled Page: Comics and Composition Pedagogy.”  Composition Studies , vol. 43, no. 1, 2015, pp. 31–50.   JSTOR , www.jstor.org/stable/43501877.

Wallace, Joseph. “How to Write an Abstract.”  MLA Style Center , Modern Language Association of America, 5 Dec. 2018, style.mla.org/how-to-write-an-abstract/.

Published October 25, 2020. Updated July 18, 2021.

By Catherine Sigler. Catherine has a Ph.D. in English Education

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How to Write an Abstract in MLA Style

Last Updated: July 13, 2021

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 40,167 times.

An abstract is a short summary of a longer paper. It’s like looking at a map before taking a journey – the map doesn’t tell the whole story of what happens, but it does clue you in to the major turns and sites along the way so you know what to expect. What's more, a good abstract can save readers time, which they will appreciate. They are often written in the American Psychological Association (APA) style because scientific researchers add abstracts to their papers more often than in other disciplines. However, providing an abstract of a research paper can be helpful no matter what part of academia you’re writing in. Below, you’ll find steps to take when writing an abstract in MLA style.

Outlining Your Abstract

• Remember, a summary gives the general idea; you don’t have to provide every detail. Imagine you're in a lecture hall and only have time to write down the key words before your professor moves on. When taking notes on your abstract, stick to what you actually need to keep the process quick, easy, and effective.
• If you have an outline of your paper, that can be a great way to see the summary of your main points and ideas, as it should include everything.

• Is there anything in the larger picture of your paper that needs to be addressed? Make sure you take notes on each important point but also the consequences, implications, and results of the points you make.

Making A Cohesive Abstract

• If it feels like you've essentially written your paper twice now, go through and weed out what you don't need. The abstract is essentially useless if it's too long. While there technically isn't an MLA length requirement, most abstracts are somewhere between 150-250 words. [1] X Research source www.pvamu.edu/.../MLA_vs_APA.ppt

• If there are any leaps you have to make between sentences or any assumptions your audience would have to make to understand your abstract, take it as a cue that you missed a main point from your paper and fill it in as necessary.

• Cut out anything that’s unnecessary. If it bulks up your abstract and it doesn't lead to a greater end, cut it. You don't need it.
• Add transitions in places if it still seems jarring.
• Check to make sure you’ve included all your main ideas, though each main idea doesn’t need to be its own sentence.
• View it as a whole. Does it make sense overall? Does it answer the main questions your paper sets out to ask?

Formatting Your Abstract to MLA Style

• Only use one space after end punctuation, like periods.
• Use paragraph indentations by tabbing over once at the beginning of each paragraph.
• Make your abstract double-spaced by highlighting the section and clicking on “Paragraph.” Go down to “Spacing.” Under “Line Spacing,” select “Double.” Click “OK” at the bottom of the window.
• Use 1-inch margins. Select the “Page Layout” tab, and use the margin drop-down menu to select 1-inch margins (generally labeled “Normal”).

• The sentence, "We saw two elephants, William, and Kate" can mean something entirely different than, "We saw two elephants, William and Kate." In the first sentence, we saw four things: two elephants and two people. In the second sentence, we saw two things: two elephants (with the names William and Kate). For this reason, the Oxford comma is very important!

• This is similar to pronouns. You would never start off a story saying "He went to the store." Who's he? Without saying what the acronym stands for, your audience may not know what you're talking about.

• Two sets of eyes are always better than one. Once you have your finished product, ask a friend (or two) to read your abstract. Do they notice any grammar mistakes? Do they understand the topic at hand? This can be especially useful since they aren't already familiar with your paper and their eyes are fresh on the page.

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• Spell out geographical locations in the text, including states and countries. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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Writing an Abstract in MLA Style

An MLA-style abstract is a concise review of a finished research paper that inspires its readers to read the whole document on the topic. Writing an abstract in MLA style usually aims to summarise the objective, subject-matter, methods, discussions, and conclusions of a paper. An abstract is a reduced form of a lengthy piece of writing. It highlights the key points, briefly describes the content and scope of the paper and reviews the content in a shortened form. Writing an abstract in MLA style is one of the most commonly used modes to write abstracts in the arts and humanities courses.

Writing a high-quality abstract need the explanation of what was done and what was found by the study in an easy, concise and direct language so that readers can ultimately decide whether to read the complete paper or not. The general rules provided in the present article will guide you in writing an abstract in MLA style.

General Rules for Writing an Abstract in MLA Style

• While writing an abstract in MLA style, it is firstly needed to summarise the objective of the research and the methods used.
• MLA-style abstract should comprise a short description of the objective, methods, findings and convincing conclusions of the study.
• MLA-style abstract for humanities topics should be short and snappy. It should be about 150–250 words long.
• MLA format does not generally need an abstract. In case an abstract is required, it should be placed after the title page, but before the main text of the document.
• State why you decided to conduct a research on the subject and why the readers should be concerned about the topic of your research.
• Give a detailed account of the research methods used in the study. Also, describe how the results of the study were obtained.
• Give an account of the findings and include what was found as the result of your research.
• In case, the findings have larger implications, comprise them in the conclusion section.
• Avoid ambiguous and unnecessary words, phrases and sentences that hamper the real value of the abstract.
• Ensure there are no grammatical, spelling or punctuation errors in the abstract. The abstract should be error-free in order to achieve the readers’ confidence.
• Abstract should be double-spaced throughout. Use decipherable fonts, like Times New Roman, Arial, etc., in 12-point font size.
• When citing a long work in the abstract, use italics instead of quotation marks.
• Read and revise the abstract several times to make it perfect and faultless.
• Ensure that the final form of the abstract is kept within the word limit.

By following the given rules you can learn the basic manner by which an abstract is written in MLA style. The above mentioned general rules will help you to learn and also guide you in writing an abstract in MLA style.

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• MLA format for academic papers and essays

MLA Format | Complete Guidelines & Free Template

Published on December 11, 2019 by Raimo Streefkerk . Revised on March 5, 2024 by Jack Caulfield.

The MLA Handbook provides guidelines for creating MLA citations and formatting academic papers. This quick guide will help you set up your MLA format paper in no time.

Start by applying these MLA format guidelines to your document:

• Times New Roman 12
• 1″ page margins
• Double line spacing
• ½” indent for new paragraphs
• Title case capitalization for headings

For accurate citations, you can use our free MLA Citation Generator .

Download Word template Open Google Docs template

(To use the Google Docs template, copy the file to your Drive by clicking on ‘file’ > ‘Make a copy’)

Table of contents

How to set up mla format in google docs, header and title, running head, works cited page, creating mla style citations, headings and subheadings, tables and figures, frequently asked questions about mla format.

The header in MLA format is left-aligned on the first page of your paper. It includes

• Your full name
• Your instructor’s or supervisor’s name
• The course name or number
• The due date of the assignment

After the MLA header, press ENTER once and type your paper title. Center the title and don’t forget to apply title-case capitalization. Read our article on writing strong titles that are informative, striking and appropriate.

For a paper with multiple authors, it’s better to use a separate title page instead.

At the top of every page, including the first page, you need to include your last name and the page number. This is called the “running head.” Follow these steps to set up the MLA running head in your Word or Google Docs document:

• Double-click at the top of a page
• Type your last name
• Insert automatic page numbering
• Align the content to the right

The running head should look like this:

The Works Cited list is included on a separate page at the end of your paper. You list all the sources you referenced in your paper in alphabetical order. Don’t include sources that weren’t cited in the paper, except potentially in an MLA annotated bibliography assignment.

Place the title “Works Cited” in the center at the top of the page. After the title, press ENTER once and insert your MLA references.

If a reference entry is longer than one line, each line after the first should be indented ½ inch (called a hanging indent ). All entries are double spaced, just like the rest of the text.

Generate accurate MLA citations with Scribbr

Prefer to cite your sources manually? Use the interactive example below to see what the Works Cited entry and MLA in-text citation look like for different source types.

Headings and subheadings are not mandatory, but they can help you organize and structure your paper, especially in longer assignments.

MLA has only a few formatting requirements for headings. They should

• Be written in title case
• Be left-aligned
• Not end in a period

We recommend keeping the font and size the same as the body text and applying title case capitalization. In general, boldface indicates greater prominence, while italics are appropriate for subordinate headings.

Chapter Title

Section Heading

Tip: Both Google Docs and Microsoft Word allow you to create heading levels that help you to keep your headings consistent.

Tables and other illustrations (referred to as “figures”) should be placed as close to the relevant part of text as possible. MLA also provides guidelines for presenting them.

MLA format for tables

Tables are labeled and numbered, along with a descriptive title. The label and title are placed above the table on separate lines; the label and number appear in bold.

A caption providing information about the source appears below the table; you don’t need one if the table is your own work.

Below this, any explanatory notes appear, marked on the relevant part of the table with a superscript letter. The first line of each note is indented; your word processor should apply this formatting automatically.

Just like in the rest of the paper, the text is double spaced and you should use title case capitalization for the title (but not for the caption or notes).

MLA format for figures

Figures (any image included in your paper that isn’t a table) are also labeled and numbered, but here, this is integrated into the caption below the image. The caption in this case is also centered.

The label “Figure” is abbreviated to “Fig.” and followed by the figure number and a period. The rest of the caption gives either full source information, or (as in the example here) just basic descriptive information about the image (author, title, publication year).

Source information in table and figure captions

If the caption of your table or figure includes full source information and that source is not otherwise cited in the text, you don’t need to include it in your Works Cited list.

Give full source information in a caption in the same format as you would in the Works Cited list, but without inverting the author name (i.e. John Smith, not Smith, John).

MLA recommends using 12-point Times New Roman , since it’s easy to read and installed on every computer. Other standard fonts such as Arial or Georgia are also acceptable. If in doubt, check with your supervisor which font you should be using.

The main guidelines for formatting a paper in MLA style are as follows:

• Use an easily readable font like 12 pt Times New Roman
• Set 1 inch page margins
• Apply double line spacing
• Include a four-line MLA heading on the first page
• Center the paper’s title
• Indent every new paragraph ½ inch
• Use title case capitalization for headings
• Cite your sources with MLA in-text citations
• List all sources cited on a Works Cited page at the end

The fastest and most accurate way to create MLA citations is by using Scribbr’s MLA Citation Generator .

Search by book title, page URL, or journal DOI to automatically generate flawless citations, or cite manually using the simple citation forms.

The MLA Handbook is currently in its 9th edition , published in 2021.

This quick guide to MLA style  explains the latest guidelines for citing sources and formatting papers according to MLA.

Usually, no title page is needed in an MLA paper . A header is generally included at the top of the first page instead. The exceptions are when:

• Your instructor requires one, or
• Your paper is a group project

In those cases, you should use a title page instead of a header, listing the same information but on a separate page.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Streefkerk, R. (2024, March 05). MLA Format | Complete Guidelines & Free Template. Scribbr. Retrieved April 17, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/mla/formatting/

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Abstract Example

Mla formatting: abstract example.

• Cover Page Example
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• Notes and Footnotes Page Example
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• Reference Page Example
• References for this MLA Document

In 2012, twenty-percent of adults were recorded to have at least one tattoo on their body; with tattooing being a fast and growing industry in modern culture, percentages have only increased since. Tattooing has been around for centuries, yet the culture surrounding it has labeled the art medium as strictly gang-related and only capable of holding negative connotations. Specifically, looking at Dr. Laka, a modern Mexican artist, and his medium of tattoo imagery in art, this paper will discuss the taboos surrounding tattooing, how symbols and imagery create narratives on the skin of individuals, and how women are represented and projected upon in both the art and tattooing industries. Utilizing old photographs, advertisement posters, magazines, and postcards, Dr. Laka uses these preserved human canvases to tell the narratives of the individuals preserved in time. Reflecting his culture and personal style, Dr. Lakra does not create the canvases he works on, but takes what has been formed and places his personal touch on them.

            Keywords: art, artist, canvas, culture, death, Dr. Lakra, illustration, Mexican art, photography, tattooing

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How to Write a Research Paper in MLA Format

• Basics of MLA
• How to format a MLA paper
• Title page in MLA style
• MLA abstract
• Body and in-text citing

MLA Works Cited page

• Quotations and paraphrasing
• Avoiding plagiarism
• MLA style headings

The basics of MLA style: know before you start!

How to format your mla paper: page layout and mla header.

• Set page margins to 1 inch.
• Times New Roman, Arial, or Verdana, point 12, is a recommended font.
• All your content must be double-spaced unless specified otherwise.
• Every new paper paragraph must have a 0.5 inches indent.
• The title of your research paper must be centered.
• No period is placed after the title or headings.
• Title capitalization must be used for all MLA-style headings.
• MLA paper header must be placed in the top left corner.
• Page numbering must be in the top right corner of each page with the student’s last name and the number (Jones 1).

How to create a title page in MLA style?

• University Name is centered and goes on top of the page.
• Every word in the title is capitalized, and the title is centered.
• The subtitle (if necessary) goes as the second line below the main title.
• The bottom of the page starts with a student’s name (centered).
• The course name and number go below the author’s name.
• Professor’s full name goes as the next line.
• The last line is the date of submission or due date.

MLA Style abstract in research paper

• Abstracts should be between 100 and 250 words or around seven sentences summarizing your research.
• Your abstract should have a sentence that reflects your motivations and objectives.
• Include one sentence about your research methodology and findings.
• Do not use any citations or references in your research paper abstract.
• Provide a reason why you have conducted the research and why it’s important.

MLA format for research in paper body and in-text MLA citing

• Introduction . It should talk about the importance of your subject and provide a basic background of your subject. Give something inspiring to motivate your readers to read further. Using no more than two citations in your MLA research paper introduction is recommended. It should be up to 15% of the total paper’s amount.
• Thesis Statement . Your thesis statement is the heart of your paper, meaning you must provide the main argument or make an assumption reflecting your main topic or an idea you follow.
• Methods . Explain your methodology and provide information on whether it’s a qualitative or quantitative method. Talk about why it’s the most suitable method and why you think it is helpful.
• Results . The next section should discuss the research results by offering statistical data and all relevant information that can be used for research purposes and replication.
• Discussion . This is the part where you should provide an analysis of research findings and justification. If there were any limitations, you should talk about them in this part of your MLA research paper.
• Conclusion . Explain your thesis through the lens of research that has been done. Avoid using citations in this section, and do not introduce new ideas!

• The “Works Cited” must be placed in the center without being bold.
• All of the MLA research paper references must be sorted alphabetically
• Avoid using sources that have not been cited in the paper.
• Press the “enter” key once after the Works Cited line and place your MLA research paper references next.
• Each second line of the reference is done with a hanging indent (0.5 inches).

Quotations and paraphrasing in MLA format

How to avoid plagiarism in mla research papers, mla style heading for research paper writing purposes.

• The MLA research paper headings must be written in the Title case style.
• All the headings are aligned to the left margin of the page.
• There is no period at the end of the headings, as you may have noticed by checking an MLA research paper template online.
• The font and size must be the same throughout your MLA research paper, with title capitalization.
• Using bold fonts for headers is only used to indicate greater importance
• Italics are only used for subordinate headings

• Writing a Research Paper
• Research Paper Title
• Research Paper Sources
• Research Paper Problem Statement
• Research Paper Thesis Statement
• Hypothesis for a Research Paper
• Research Question
• Research Paper Outline
• Research Paper Summary
• Research Paper Prospectus
• Research Paper Proposal
• Research Paper Format
• Research Paper Styles
• AMA Style Research Paper
• MLA Style Research Paper
• Chicago Style Research Paper
• APA Style Research Paper
• Research Paper Structure
• Research Paper Cover Page
• Research Paper Abstract
• Research Paper Introduction
• Research Paper Body Paragraph
• Research Paper Literature Review
• Research Paper Background
• Research Paper Methods Section
• Research Paper Results Section
• Research Paper Discussion Section
• Research Paper Conclusion
• Research Paper Appendix
• Research Paper Bibliography
• APA Reference Page
• Annotated Bibliography
• Bibliography vs Works Cited vs References Page
• Research Paper Types
• What is Qualitative Research

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MLA General Format 

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

MLA Style specifies guidelines for formatting manuscripts and citing research in writing. MLA Style also provides writers with a system for referencing their sources through parenthetical citation in their essays and Works Cited pages. 

Writers who properly use MLA also build their credibility by demonstrating accountability to their source material. Most importantly, the use of MLA style can protect writers from accusations of plagiarism, which is the purposeful or accidental uncredited use of source material produced by other writers. 

If you are asked to use MLA format, be sure to consult the  MLA Handbook  (9th edition). Publishing scholars and graduate students should also consult the  MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing  (3rd edition). The  MLA Handbook  is available in most writing centers and reference libraries. It is also widely available in bookstores, libraries, and at the MLA web site. See the Additional Resources section of this page for a list of helpful books and sites about using MLA Style.

Paper Format

The preparation of papers and manuscripts in MLA Style is covered in part four of the  MLA Style Manual . Below are some basic guidelines for formatting a paper in  MLA Style :

General Guidelines

• Type your paper on a computer and print it out on standard, white 8.5 x 11-inch paper.
• Double-space the text of your paper and use a legible font (e.g. Times New Roman). Whatever font you choose, MLA recommends that the regular and italics type styles contrast enough that they are each distinct from one another. The font size should be 12 pt.
• Leave only one space after periods or other punctuation marks (unless otherwise prompted by your instructor).
• Set the margins of your document to 1 inch on all sides.
• Indent the first line of each paragraph one half-inch from the left margin. MLA recommends that you use the “Tab” key as opposed to pushing the space bar five times.
• Create a header that numbers all pages consecutively in the upper right-hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor may ask that you omit the number on your first page. Always follow your instructor's guidelines.)
• Use italics throughout your essay to indicate the titles of longer works and, only when absolutely necessary, provide emphasis.
• If you have any endnotes, include them on a separate page before your Works Cited page. Entitle the section Notes (centered, unformatted).

Formatting the First Page of Your Paper

• Do not make a title page for your paper unless specifically requested or the paper is assigned as a group project. In the case of a group project, list all names of the contributors, giving each name its own line in the header, followed by the remaining MLA header requirements as described below. Format the remainder of the page as requested by the instructor.
• In the upper left-hand corner of the first page, list your name, your instructor's name, the course, and the date. Again, be sure to use double-spaced text.
• Double space again and center the title. Do not underline, italicize, or place your title in quotation marks. Write the title in Title Case (standard capitalization), not in all capital letters.
• Use quotation marks and/or italics when referring to other works in your title, just as you would in your text. For example:  Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas  as Morality Play; Human Weariness in "After Apple Picking"
• Double space between the title and the first line of the text.
• Create a header in the upper right-hand corner that includes your last name, followed by a space with a page number. Number all pages consecutively with Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor or other readers may ask that you omit the last name/page number header on your first page. Always follow instructor guidelines.)

Here is a sample of the first page of a paper in MLA style:

The First Page of an MLA Paper

Section Headings

Writers sometimes use section headings to improve a document’s readability. These sections may include individual chapters or other named parts of a book or essay.

MLA recommends that when dividing an essay into sections you number those sections with an Arabic number and a period followed by a space and the section name.

MLA does not have a prescribed system of headings for books (for more information on headings, please see page 146 in the MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing , 3rd edition). If you are only using one level of headings, meaning that all of the sections are distinct and parallel and have no additional sections that fit within them, MLA recommends that these sections resemble one another grammatically. For instance, if your headings are typically short phrases, make all of the headings short phrases (and not, for example, full sentences). Otherwise, the formatting is up to you. It should, however, be consistent throughout the document.

If you employ multiple levels of headings (some of your sections have sections within sections), you may want to provide a key of your chosen level headings and their formatting to your instructor or editor.

Sample Section Headings

The following sample headings are meant to be used only as a reference. You may employ whatever system of formatting that works best for you so long as it remains consistent throughout the document.

Formatted, unnumbered:

Level 1 Heading: bold, flush left

Level 2 Heading: italics, flush left

Level 3 Heading: centered, bold

Level 4 Heading: centered, italics

Level 5 Heading: underlined, flush left

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Have a Submission Question?

Connect with the National Program Committee's Contributed Content Working Group (CCWG), MLA Headquarters, or SLA Headquarters.

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MLA|SLA ’23 FAQ: Contributed Content

Content contributed by professionals in the field, including research and program description papers, lightning talks, and posters; plus highly-engaging and interactive immersion sessions, is the heart of each MLA conference. Share your professional research and explorations with your colleagues and contribute to the knowledge of the profession!

• Round 1: MLA|SLA collaborative contributed papers, immersion sessions, and education sessions : CLOSED
• Round 2: posters and lightning talks: Open December 15, 2022-January 26, 2023

How to Submit Abstracts for Papers, Posters, and Lightning Talks

• How to Submit Abstracts for Immersion Sessions
• Round 2 Submissions Checklist
• At and After the Meeting

General Abstract & Presentation Questions

What types of presentations are accepted.

Research abstracts and program description abstracts will be reviewed and accepted using separate rubrics:

• Research abstracts report on designing, conducting, and analyzing a research project.
• Program description abstracts describe the creation and improvement of products, programs, technologies, administrative practices, or services that librarians and information professionals conduct.

Authors will select one type of abstract for each submission during the submission process.

Abstracts and presentations shall be scholarly works free from commercialism or private interests. The MLA meeting provides a limited number of contributed session slots that are reserved for members and nonmembers to submit their ideas, via the peer review process, in order to share the very best research and demonstration projects. When a session is biased toward one vendor and excludes or devalues others, the session crosses the line from being a scholarly session with a balanced message to a targeted commercial presentation.

Commercial presentations are not eligible as a contributed submission. MLA reserves the right at any stage of the review process to remove from consideration a submission that has a clear commercial or marketing bias. Exhibitors have many promotional opportunities that are designed to accommodate their training and marketing needs such as Sunrise Seminars and Technology Showcases.

What are the presentation formats?

• Three types of presentation formats are solicited: papers, posters, and lightning talks. Paper submissions will be accepted beginning Wednesday, August 24, 2022, through Monday, October 31, 2022, 6:00 p.m., central time. The submission site will re-open for Poster and lightning talk abstract submissions beginning December 15, 2022, through Thursday, January 26, 2023.

How long are the presentations expected to be?

• Typically, paper presentations are limited to fifteen minutes and lightning talk presentations are limited to five minutes—but this depends on the total number of presentations scheduled during a session. Some presentations may have a little more time, some a little less. The limits also apply to the on-demand recorded presentations.
• Poster authors should prepare to staff their poster for one hour during the in-person meeting and record up to a five minute presentation.

How should I decide whether to submit my project as a paper, poster, or lightning talk?

• Consider your presentation style and the nature of the material you wish to present. Posters are highly visual presentations; lightning talks are brief, focus on one main point, and are more verbally oriented; and papers are lengthier and verbally oriented. You may also wish to consider the rules or guidelines of your institution for obtaining travel funding and consider your career goals. In past MLA conferences, paper acceptance has been more competitive than poster or lightning talk acceptances.

How do I decide whether to submit my project as a research abstract or a program description abstract?

• Determine the type of project you will be submitting. Research abstracts report on designing, conducting, and analyzing a research project. Program description abstracts describe the creation, improvement, and assessment of products, programs, technologies, administrative practices, or services conducted by librarians and information professionals. As a general principle, abstracts should be prepared in an academic style and be free of commercialism.
• The two types of abstracts will be scored using set criteria and rubrics . Review the rubrics carefully to help you determine which type best fits your project. Abstracts will not be transferred between types, and selecting an inappropriate type for your project may result in a poor score and lack of acceptance. You will have the best chance of acceptance if you select the appropriate type—research or program description—when submitting your abstract.
• Given space constraints, there is a maximum number of papers, posters, and lightning talks that can be presented. To make acceptance decisions, all scored abstracts submitted as papers will be pooled, and the highest-scoring abstracts will be accepted. Similar processes will occur with posters and lightning talks.

What are the review criteria for research abstract and program description abstracts?

Please review the criteria (rubrics) that will be used to review submitted abstracts.

What is the speaker release for MLA|SLA '23 content?

As part of Medical Library Association's (MLA) professional development and continuing education efforts, you or MLA may record sessions prior to or at the Annual Conference and MLA makes those audio and video recordings available to attendees, members, and other professionals interested in the topics being covered.  You agree to participate in the Annual Conference program described above and therefore grant the following licensing rights for no monetary compensation:

You hereby grant to MLA the following rights to any written or visual material submitted in connection with your presentation(s) at the Annual Conference in any and all media or form of communication whether now or existing or hereafter developed:

• the non-exclusive worldwide right to transcribe, publish, reproduce, distribute, sell, display, or license your presentation(s), as presented at MLA's Annual Conference, alone or in conjunction with other materials;
• the non-exclusive worldwide right to use your presentation(s) recordings or materials as part of a course book or in any other publication produced by MLA; and
• the non-exclusive worldwide right to use your name, likeness and biography in connection with the advertising and promotion of your presentation(s) and/or MLA.

You warrant that you have authority to enter into this agreement and that your presentation and any other material:

• is original to you or your coauthors, not subject to any third party copyright;
• will not libel anyone or infringe on or invade the rights of others and you have obtained permission from the copyright proprietor for use of any third party copyrighted material;
• is not under consideration elsewhere for this Annual Conference and has not previously been presented at an MLA Annual Conference;
• is free of commercial bias; and
• will include a disclosure to the audience of any relevant conflicts of interest.

This speaker release does not give copyright or your ideas to MLA. You are welcome to give this same presentation at other conferences or venues.

MLA is happy to provide a copy of the Recording to you and will grant you a non-exclusive license to use the Recording in any way you would like.

For questions, please contact Kate Corcoran .

Transparency and disclosure of conflicts of interest

Sources of funding should always be disclosed. Where a clinical trial registration number is available, this should be included.

Conflicts of interest

Presenters shall provide a statement and slide at the beginning of the presentation that discloses any conflicts of interest (or lack thereof). Sample wording:

• [Name of individual] has received fees for serving as a speaker, a consultant, or an advisory board member for [names of organizations], and has received research funding from [names of organization].
• [Name of individual] is an employee of [name of organization].
• [Name of individual] owns stocks and shares in [name of organization].
• [Name of individual] owns other interest in the organization and brief description.

MLA assumes no responsibility for statements or opinions expressed in the presentations. The MLA president and/or MLA executive director have the authority to exclude a presentation from the program.

Is the MLA Research Caucus going to be giving awards in 2023?

The MLA Research Caucus gives out several awards recognizing those paper and poster presenters whose work demonstrates high-quality research, and they will continue this for the 2023 conference. We will indicate all accepted research papers and posters with a symbol in the Official Program. The submission site asks if you want to be considered for the Research Awards. Criteria used to assess research projects and the process used to judge projects are created by the MLA Research Caucus.

Abstract Submission-Specific Questions

How do i submit an abstract.

• Submit abstracts for papers, posters, and lightning talks using MLA’s online abstract submission site. You may continue to make changes to your abstract until the specific submission deadlines, noted below. There will be no extensions of these deadlines. You are encouraged to submit your abstract before the deadline to avoid the last minute rush and allow time for technical assistance, if needed.
• Paper deadline: October 31, 2022, 6:00 p.m., central time
• Poster and lightning talk deadline: January 26, 2023, 6:00 p.m., central time
• To use the system, you need create a new account in Scorecard for MLA '23.
• You do not need to be an MLA member to submit content.
• Your full abstract submission includes multiple areas where you will need to provide information. Please see additional FAQ entries on these specific topics.

What is the required format for a paper, poster, or lightning talk abstract?

• To ensure anonymous peer review, author names, institution affiliations, locations, and any address information should NOT be in the title or the body of your abstract.
• Program description submissions MUST use structured abstract format and include Background, Description, and Conclusions.
• Research submissions MUST use structured abstract format and include Objectives, Methods, Results, and Conclusions. Please refer to the MLA Research Section page for guidance on writing a structured research abstract. 
• Please consult the MLA Style Manual for guidance on style, spelling, and grammar.
• When completing your submissions, please include results or conclusions (if complete). These will be included in the peer review process. See the question below for more information on adding results and conclusions after the submission process.

What additional content needs to be included in my submission?

Area of practice.

Categorize your submission based one of the MLA Areas of Practice [login required], which will provide the NPC and meeting planners a common taxonomy for organizing and scheduling contributed content. If your submission is accepted, your selections will also help attendees to identify content of most interest to them.

• Authors should choose a primary Area of Practice per abstract and may choose an optional secondary area if relevant.
• If you are unsure which specific area of practice listed best fits your abstract, you can contact the Contributed Content Work Group with questions.

Other areas

• Additional authors, if any,  (optional)
• Speaker release (applies to the use of your presentation, if accepted)
• Disclosure policy agreement
• MLA|SLA '23 presenting preference
• Research award consideration (if you submit a research abstract)
• JMLA Virtual Project Section Consideration
• Reviewer Feedback preference

What sections MUST be included in my program description abstract?

• Your submission MUST include the author/main contact, background, and description sections of the structured abstract.
• Titles and abstracts will not be formatted or edited. It is your responsibility to check for correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. You will be judged in the review process on the professionalism of your submitted abstract. The abstract as submitted will be put into the online meeting scheduler and abstract supplement.
• The background section should include program objectives and/or purpose, background description and setting. Word limit is 120 words.
• The description section should include the process of developing, implementing, and evaluating your new service, program, or initiative and may not exceed 200 words.
• If your program has already been completed, you may opt to enter your outcomes at this time in the conclusion section. Otherwise, include outcomes of the program you expect to measure. Word limit is 120 words.
• For the author block, please be complete and accurate with author information. If your abstract is approved and you need to update author information, you will access your abstract in the Conference Harvester site to make the necessary changes.
• Please examine the  criteria (rubric) to be used to evaluate abstracts to ensure your abstract includes the level of detail needed to permit review.

What sections MUST be included in my research abstract?

• Your submission MUST include the author/main contact, objective, and methods sections of the structured abstract.
• Titles and abstracts will not be formatted or edited prior to being reviewed. It is your responsibility to check for correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. You will be judged in the review process on the professionalism of your submitted abstract. The abstract as submitted will be put into the online meeting scheduler and abstract supplement.
• The objective section (for which you may substitute the research question) may not exceed 100 words.
• The methods section should describe your methods in sufficient detail (include the design, setting, population, intervention, and exposure as appropriate) so the peer reviewers can evaluate your submission adequately. Word limit is 200 words.

May I enter my results and conclusions when I submit my abstract?

• Yes, you may enter either results or conclusions (or both) with your initial abstract submission. The results section may not exceed 100 words; the conclusion section may not exceed 120 words.
• Reviewers will be sent all sections of your submission, including the abstract.
• Authors MAY postpone entering results (for research abstracts only) or conclusions until after the peer-review process is completed. Authors should share any available information about your results or conclusions at the time of submission.
• Authors with selected abstracts will need to add the results and conclusions sections if they did not already do so in the initial abstract submission; please add by late February 2023.

May I include tables, figures, or citations in my abstract?

No. Structured abstracts should NOT contain tables, figures, or bibliographic references.

What do I need to do to anonymize my abstract?

IMPORTANT: To ensure anonymous peer review, author names, institution affiliations, locations, and any address information should NOT be in the title or the body of your abstract. The National Program Committee (NPC) reserves the right to edit abstracts containing any author, institutional, location, or company names for the purpose of eliminating identifying information before sending the abstract to reviewers. You are urged to anonymize your abstract yourself, because the NPC cannot guarantee the resulting quality if changes must be made after submission.

How will I know if my abstract is accepted?

• Authors of paper abstracts will receive by email an automated acceptance or rejection notification letter on/after December 6, 2022. If you are a paper author and have not received the notification email by December 15, please contact Debra Cavanaugh .
• If you submit a poster or lightning talk abstract, you will receive notification by February 28, 2023.

How do I withdraw or cancel an abstract or presentation?

All withdrawals or cancellations must be in writing and emailed to Debra Cavanaugh , director, Professional Development. Be sure to include the full title of your abstract, abstract control number, and author name.

My paper or immersion session abstract was not accepted. Can I resubmit for a poster or lightning talk?

Yes, please do! Please note that the focus and requirements for each type of presentation abstract are different. If a primary author wishes to resubmit an unsuccessful paper or immersion session topic, the submission must be changed to meet the requirements for the new presentation type (poster or lightning talk). Primary authors have access to their previous submission data and a “Preview Abstract” button to enable easier resubmission.

How to Submit an Abstract for an Immersion Session

What are immersion sessions.

Immersion sessions are meant to provide an in-depth perspective on areas of interest to MLA members. They are your chance to design and offer the programming that you want to see. Immersion sessions should strive for excellent engagement and can vary in format from a panel of invited speakers to a single invited speaker, a facilitated book discussion, as well as less-conventional sessions like an “unconference” or flipped session, or to create a work product to benefit the profession. The only type of programming excluded from immersion sessions are paper presentations.

Immersion sessions are also not an opportunity for vendors to showcase new products or services. For information on advertising and sponsorship opportunities at MLA|SLA ’23, vendors should contact Sabrina Sheth .

Immersion session proposals will be competitively reviewed and scored using a standard rubric . The rubric will guide the selection process with the end result being that a limited number of submissions will be selected for presentation. If your submission is not selected for an immersion session, you may be encouraged to submit it as a different type of session.

What kinds of topics can be covered in an immersion session?

The 2023 NPC welcomes a broad range of topics and will be especially interested to see proposals in the following topic areas:

• Trends in data science
• Diversity and inclusion
• Clinical care
• Areas covered by the MLA InSight Initiative (engaging users in a disruptive era, meeting the evolving needs of library stakeholders, expanding diversity in publishing)
• Advocacy of the health information librarian profession

Submit your proposal through the online abstract submission site through October 31, 2022, 6:00 p.m., central time.

How many immersion sessions will be conducted at MLA|SLA ’23?

We plan to accommodate a limited number of sessions virtually with the majority to take place at the in-person conference in Detroit. Immersion sessions selected for the in-person meeting do require in-person attendance by presenters and attendees. NOTE that there were many more applications than could be accommodated at MLA ’22, so applicants should expect the process to be competitive.

Who can submit an immersion session abstract?

Anyone can submit an application, but the 2023 NPC encourages collaboration in authorship (e.g., an MLA caucus, domain hub, or chapter). Informal groups—for example, “nine librarians interested in team-based learning” or “a group of librarians who think they have an innovative way of doing something”—are also encouraged to apply. The 2023 NPC encourages groups to work together and cosponsor sessions.

What are the costs for an immersion session and how do I pay for them?

MLA will provide the option of multiple room set-ups for immersion sessions:

• a room at the annual conference center; OR via Zoom (if virtual)
• theatre-style seating; OR round/crescent round table seating. INDICATE YOUR CHOICE in the Technical and Setup Requirements area
• a computer and projector
• a podium or table for speakers (you will select)
• one floor mic for participant questions
• options for using MLA app audience response system (live polling in the meeting app and in your presentation, and the option for Q&A through the meeting app in each immersion session room)
• your session included in the Official Program, online program schedule, and meeting app

For any additional setup and fixtures beyond MLA’s standard meeting budget (including the costs of speaker travel and fees, a wired Internet connection, additional AV equipment, or other special needs) the submitter or sponsoring groups will explore with MLA alternate methods of funding, room configurations, equipment needs, or logistics. Please connect with Kate Corcoran for a discussion of your needs.

If your group is sponsoring a single invited speaker:

• Invited speakers who are not current members of MLA, or who have not held membership in MLA in the past five years, will be given one day of complimentary meeting registration. To request courtesy registration for invited speakers, contact Kate Corcoran .
• If the invited speaker is a current member of MLA, they are required to register at least for the day of their presentation.

One-day and multi-day registrations are available on the MLA meeting site beginning in January.

Potential sources of funds to cover expenses include partnering with an MLA caucus or obtaining a grant. MLA sections may engage in fundraising after October 1 (about 7 months before the meeting). Caucusess that plan to engage in fundraising should contact Kelly Weaver . MLA staff can assist and arrange recognition for the sponsor.

How do I submit an immersion session proposal?

Submit your proposals for immersion sessions by October 31, 2022, 6:00 p.m., central time, using MLA’s online submission site. Since the application requires some writing, it is suggested that the application be prepared in word processing software, and then the content be copied and pasted into the online submission site.

Immersion session submission fields include:

• Title: (200 character limit)
• Format: select type of format (e.g., presentation, debate, fishbowl, panel discussion, other).
• Session Description/Overview: 3 to 4 sentences describing what you will cover in your session in a way that will inform and appeal to your audience.
• Sponsors: Include name of caucus, chapter, or other groups. Submissions can be cosponsored by several groups.
• Audience: Who is the session designed for? What prior knowledge and skills should participants have, if any?
• Learning outcomes: 3 to 4 statements describing in clear, measurable terms the skills and knowledge participants will gain from your session.
• Example of a well-written outcome: “By the end of the session, participants will be able to describe the steps of the research process.”
• Example of an ambiguous outcome: “By the end of the session, participants will have greater confidence in their ability to understand complex research designs.” (This is considered poor because it refers to “confidence” and “understanding,” which cannot be observed or measured.)
• Instructional methods: 3 to 4 sentences describing what you will do to help participants achieve the learning outcomes.
• Participant engagement: 1 to 2 sentences describing what you will do to actively involve participants in the session.
• Presenters: List presenters you have identified at this time and affiliation and their skills and knowledge in the topic.
• Technical and Setup requirements: List specific requirements for your proposed session, such as ideal room set-up, audiovisual, audience response systems.
• Budget requirements: Provide a budget for any proposed out-of-pocket expenses (if any) and potential sources of funding (e.g., caucus, sponsor).

Will my immersion session submission be anonymous?

No. Immersion session primary contacts and participant names are not anonymous. Information such as the name and qualifications of the session speakers or participants can be helpful to reviewers who are assessing the potential quality, impact, and audience appeal of the proposal.

Who reviews immersion session applications?

NPC 2023 will score the applications using stated criteria . Final selections will be made by the 2023 NPC Program Planning Group.

When will I be notified about acceptance or rejection?

The primary contact for immersion sessions will be notified of acceptance or rejection by December 6, 2022. You will be notified of the precise date and time of your session in early January 2023.

Find assistance

Inquiries about immersion session applications and review criteria should be directed to: Contributed Content Planning Group

For help with other aspects of your immersion session experience, please contact staff: Debra Cavanaugh , director, Professional Development, 312.419.9097; or Kate Corcoran , MLA Chief Operating Officer. Support is available 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., central time, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

Abstract Accepted? Prepare for the Meeting!

Once accepted, your sessions will be added to the Conference Harvester system, which is an online database of approved abstracts. The primary contact identified on the application will be invited to access the online Conference Harvester to confirm their session title is accurate and to add author or presenter information. You will be notified in January 2023 when you have access .

Additional audiovisual or other special setup needs can be requested through the conference Harvester and are due no later than February 2023.

Other Things You Should Do

As the conference gets closer, what deadlines do i need to watch for.

• For an in-person conference, you should make travel arrangements as soon as possible after acceptance. This is especially critical for international presenters who may need additional time. At least one author MUST be registered for the meeting and available to present the paper, lightning talk, or poster at the in-person conference on the date and time assigned. For in-person conferences, see the MLANET website for meeting registration, hotel information, and travel information. If presenters need a letter of invitation to make travel arrangements, they should contact Mary Langman , MLA director, Information Issues and Policy, to request a letter of invitation.
• By February 28, 2023, review and update your abstract information in the Conference Harvester. This update must include adding any sections of the abstract that were submitted as anonymous, if needed.
• By March 30, 2023, 6:00 p.m., central time, primary authors should complete the following tasks:
• Make any final updates to your abstract, adding results and conclusions if you did not include them in your original submission. All parts of any abstract may not exceed 400 words.
• By April 28, 2023, 6:00 p.m., central time, primary authors should complete the following tasks:
• Upload your poster for online viewing by attendees.
• The 2023 posters will be shared on the ePoster gallery.

Do I have to register to present? When should I register for the meeting?

Presenters must register for any MLA in-person or virtual conference at which they present:

• MLA will provide free speaker registrations to non-members outside the profession. Please  submit your request with details and information about your speaker.
• Presenters who need financial assistance can apply for a no-charge registration; the jury provides a 2-week turnaround.
• MLA provides discounts to institutions that register multiple staff for virtual conference attendees.

How should I prepare materials for the online program?

Accepted sessions will be uploaded in the Conference Harvester. Beginning January 2023, the primary contact must log in to the Conference Harvester and ensure the program title and descriptions are accurate and add author/presenter and facilitator names and bios. Include photos, if available. Presentation and abstract titles cannot be changed after February 28.

The title will appear in the printed program. The title, description, presenter names, bios, and sponsoring groups will appear in the online meeting planner and meeting app. The online meeting planner/app is used by attendees to help them choose which sessions they want to attend. The planner offers keyword search that examines all presentation information, including session title, description, presenter names, and bios. Be sure to carefully proofread your entry, especially names and titles, to ensure all information is accurate.

Transparency and disclosure of conflicts of interest (a reminder)

How do i put my slides or poster onto the meeting site.

• Before the meeting, the primary contact for the session will be notified to log in to the Conference Harvester and upload their presentation slides (typically, portable document format [PDF] or PowerPoint files). The primary contact should upload the slides in the Conference Harvester by April 28, 2023.
• Electronic copies of posters will be gathered through the Conference Harvester and be available to all attendees.
• Please follow the instructions in the Conference Harvester regarding how to upload your slides and poster file.

Should I provide handouts and other giveaways for my paper, poster, or lightning talk presentation?

• Before an in-person or virtual conference, upload handouts to the Conference Harvester so that attendees can view them online. In an effort to keep the meeting as green as possible and limit paper waste, only bring handouts to an in-person conference if they are absolutely necessary. If you do opt to bring handouts, bring a limited number because you will need to transport them.
• You can record your program sessions ahead of an in-person conference through the Cadmium recording tool (slide-by-slide) or by uploading a full video file; these are tasks open to presenters in the Education Harvester in March 2023; poster presenters should provide an audio-recording to accompany their poster. The recordings will be available all conference registrants. You may also upload PowerPoint slides and handouts by logging into your Conference Harvester account by April 28, 2023.

How can I show off a website without a live Internet connection at an in-person conference?

While MLA does not endorse or recommend any specific product listed here, programs such as WebWhacker , HTTrack , and SiteSucker do allow you to download an entire website to your hard drive. You can then display and browse your website locally, without the need of an online connection.

You can also use screen-recording or screen-capture software, such as Jing , SnagIt , or FireShot to create stand-alone videos or to capture a screenshot. These options can act as a backup for times when you want to demonstrate a specific feature and you cannot connect to the Internet or do not have a speedy WiFi connection.

How and where can I get my poster printed for an in-person conference? What size should it be?

• Larger institutions or institutions that support the educational activities of their staff members may have in-house publishing or large-format printing assistance for paper posters.
• Posters should be no larger than TBD to fit a full sized poster board.
• PosterSmith offers printing on fabric material.

Where can I find moderator guidelines?

Any paper and lightning talk group session will have a moderator. Moderators keep the session running on schedule. Moderators: use these guidelines to assist you in running the session and staying on schedule.

• Moderator Guidelines: immersion sessions (TBA)
• Moderator Guidelines: papers and lightning talks (TBA)

Who should I contact for assistance?

• National Program Committee Contributed Content Working Group (CCWG): contact the Working Group: [email protected]
• CCWG includes: Frances Chu, Carolyn Dennison, AHIP, Steven Douglas, AHIP, Martha Earl, AHIP, Kate Flewelling, AHIP, Ryan Harris, AHIP, Gregory Laynor, Emily Mazure, AHIP, Terri Ottosen, AHIP, Katie Prentice, AHIP, Rose Turner and Alessia Zanin Yost, AHIP.

For help with other aspects of your contributed paper or presentation experience, please contact staff:

• Debra Cavanaugh , Director, Professional Development, 312.419.9094
• Kate Corcoran , MLA Chief Operating Officer

At and After the Conference

In-person meeting: visit the onsite speaker ready room.

Onsite at MLA '23 in-person, speakers and presenters should check-in at the Speaker Ready Room to view and confirm that their slides are ready or to make final changes, if needed. Speakers and presenters can also ask the AV staff to explain how to use the AV equipment that will be in place for the session.

If you have modified your slides and they are different from the Conference Harvester version, provide an updated version to the Speaker Ready Room Staff the day before your session.

After the conference, I want to publish my paper. Can I submit it for publication in the Journal of the Medical Library Association ?

Please do! All contributed paper authors, including non-member guests, are asked to give first option for publishing their presentations to the Journal of the Medical Library Association . Consult MLA’s guidelines for converting an oral presentation to a manuscript for publication .

You might also consider turning your presentation into an outline for a book proposal. MLA publishing seeks projects in print or digital formats that have an impact on a significant segment of the health information community. Visit Publish a Book with MLA to find proposal guidelines and learn more about the kinds of topics that MLA seeks.

How and when can I view presentations after the conference?

Abstracts will be posted to the online planner ahead of the conference to allow attendees to schedule their meeting experience.

To access presentations and other online meeting content, log in to MLANET and visit the online planner; presentations will be available beginning May 16.

• Live-streamed plenary sessions will be recorded and posted after the event.
• Paid meeting registrants (virtual and in-person) will have exclusive access to conference content for approximately a year after the conference.
• After one year, all current MLA members may view meeting content.

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Sample Essays: Writing with MLA Style

Congratulations to the students whose essays were selected for the 2023 edition of Writing with MLA Style! Essays were selected as examples of excellent student writing that use MLA style for citing sources. Essays have been lightly edited. 

If your institution subscribes to MLA Handbook Plus , you can access annotated versions of the essays selected in 2022 and 2023. 

Writing with MLA Style: 2023 Edition

The following essays were selected for the 2023 edition of Writing with MLA Style. The 2023 selection committee was composed of Ellen C. Carillo, University of Connecticut (chair); Rachel Ihara, Kingsborough Community College, City University of New York; and Tarshia L. Stanley, Wagner College.

Caroline Anderson (Pepperdine University)

“ L’Appel du Vide : Making Spaces for Sinful Exploration in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde ”

Hunter Daniels (University of South Carolina, Aiken)

“Biblical Legalism and Cultural Misogyny in The Tragedy of Mariam ”

Aspen English (Southern Utah University)

“Putting the ‘Comm’ in Comics: A Communication-Theory-Informed Reading of Graphic Narratives”

Raul Martin (Lamar University)

“The Book-Object Binary: Access and Sustainability in the Academic Library”

Grace Quasebarth (Salve Regina University)

“Finding a Voice: The Loss of Machismo Criticisms through Translation in Isabel Allende’s The House of the Spirits ”

Writing with MLA Style: 2022 Edition

The following essays were selected for the 2022 edition of Writing with MLA Style. The 2022 selection committee was composed of Ellen C. Carillo, University of Connecticut; Jessica Edwards, University of Delaware (chair); and Deborah H. Holdstein, Columbia College Chicago.

Kaile Chu (New York University, Shanghai)

“Miles Apart: An Investigation into Dedicated Online Communities’ Impact on Cultural Bias”

Sietse Hagen (University of Groningen)

“The Significance of Fiction in the Debate on Dehumanizing Media Portrayals of Refugees”

Klara Ismail (University of Exeter)

“Queering the Duchess: Exploring the Body of the Female Homosexual in John Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi ”

Yasmin Mendoza (Whittier College)

“Banning without Bans”

Niki Nassiri (Stony Brook University)

“Modern-Day US Institutions and Slavery in the Twenty-First Century”

Samantha Wilber (Palm Beach Atlantic University)

“‘Pero, tu no eres facil’: The Poet X as Multicultural Bildungsroman”

Writing with MLA Style: 2019 Edition

The following essays were selected for the 2019 edition of Writing with MLA Style. The 2019 selection committee was composed of Jessica Edwards, University of Delaware; Deborah H. Holdstein, Columbia College Chicago (chair); and Liana Silva, César E. Chavez High School, Houston, Texas.

Catherine Charlton (University of King’s College, Nova Scotia)

“‘Coal Is in My Blood’: Public and Private Representations of Community Identity in Springhill, Nova Scotia”

Alyiah Gonzales (California Polytechnic State University)

“Disrupting White Normativity in Langston Hughes’s ‘I, Too’ and Toni Morrison’s ‘Recitatif’”

Meg Matthias (Miami University, Ohio)

“Prescriptions of (Living) Historical Happiness: Gendered Performance and Racial Comfort in Reenactment”

Jennifer Nguyen  (Chaminade University of Honolulu)

“The Vietnam War, the American War: Literature, Film, and Popular Memory”

Emily Schlepp (Northwest University)

“A Force of Love: A Deconstructionist Reading of Characters in Dickens’s  Great Expectations ”

How To Do In-Text Citations in MLA Format: A Quick Guide for Students

An in-text citation is a reference to information originating from another source. In-text citations must be used when you summarize, quote, paraphrase or refer to another source within a written document, such as academic literature. 

In-text citations are essential in academic writing. Without them, how would readers verify the information is reliable and accurate? Trustworthy authors include their sources for verifiable information rather than opinions so readers know where the evidence for claims can be explored further.

The Modern Language Association manages MLA style standards with the purpose to “strengthen the study and teaching of language and literature” and standardize how information sources are credited in scholarly writing. Not only does the MLA recommend proper citation format, but it also suggests proper general formatting, including document spacing, margins and font size.

As you begin authoring scholarly works, you’ll find the need to credit sources. Use this quick guide to learn how to do in-text citations in MLA format.

What is MLA format?

How to do in-text citations in mla, how to do a works cited page in mla, common challenges and solutions, tips for effective in-text citations.

MLA citation style is a system for crediting sources in scholarly writing and has been widely used in classrooms, journals and the press since 1931. What began with a three-page style sheet for the MLA’s scholarly journal became a uniform writing style preferred by academics and the editorial media everywhere.

Since its inception, the in-text citation style has changed from a recommended combination of footnotes and in-text citations in MLA format. The 1951 style guide suggested : “If the reference is brief, insert it, within parentheses, in the text itself . . . ; if it is lengthy, put it in a [foot]note.” As technology and society changed, so did the MLA style. In 1995, the document added recommendations for citing CD-ROMs and online databases. In 2016, the MLA published one of the most modern versions of the MLA Handbook , wherein in-text citations in MLA style should now be written according to a template of core elements.

The modern-day components of an in-text citation in MLA format, as of the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook , include:

• Author’s name
• Page numbers (if applicable)

These short in-text citations serve as references to a Works Cited list, which should follow a written piece of work and list all sources used in detail.

Authors who correctly use in-text citations in MLA style will prove their credibility, integrity and responsibility to share accurate and reliable information and simultaneously protect themselves from stealing sources and ideas from other writers, also known as plagiarism. Plagiarism is a severe offense , and many institutions have strict rules against the practice .

Now that you understand the importance of citations let’s review how to use in-text citations in MLA style. When referring to another author’s work in your own written text, you must use parenthetical citations, including the source in parentheses within the sentence that refers to the work. 

If a source does not have page numbers, use another numbering system, such as chapters, sections, scenes or articles that are explicitly numbered. If there are no numbered divisions within the work, simply cite the author’s name.

The basic format for in-text citations in MLA writings is as follows:

• The pail of water was at the top of the hill, which Jack and Jill decided to climb (Mother Goose 1) .

If including a direct quote from a source, enclose the entire quote within quotation marks to avoid confusing the reader. The in-text citation should fall outside the quotation marks at the end of the sentence before the sentence’s period. Paraphrased information does not need quotation marks but does need proper in-text citation.

It should be noted that any information included in your in-text citations must refer to the source information on the Works Cited page listed at the end of your document.

If you’re wondering how to list the references on the Works Cited page, the format varies depending on the type, such as a book or a website.

How to cite a book in MLA

• Author last name, first name. Title. Publisher, year.

How to cite an article in MLA

• Author last name, first name. “Article title.” Publication, volume/issue, publication month. Year, page numbers. Database, reference URL.

How to cite a website in MLA

• Author last name, first name. “Title.” Publication, publication month. Year, web page URL.

While constructing your paper, you may encounter a few citation challenges, such as a source with multiple authors or no known author. Though this can be confusing, this is how to use in-text citations in MLA style for challenging situations.

How to cite multiple authors in MLA

To write an in-text citation in MLA format for a source with multiple authors , simply list each author’s last name before the page number. Sources with more than two authors should cite the first author, followed by “et al.” For example:

• 2 authors: (Hall and Oates 1)
• 3+ authors: (Hall et al. 1)

How to cite sources with no author in MLA

Sources with no author must match the first listed element within its Works Cited entry. For example:

• In-text citation: (Baa, Baa, Black Sheep 0:15)
• Works Cited entry: “Baa, Baa, Black Sheep.” Spotify . https://open.spotify.com/track/1Zpe8ef70Wx20Bu2mLdXc1?si=7TlgCyj1SYmP6K-uy4isuQ

How to cite indirect or secondary sources in MLA

A secondary source is a publication that provides second-hand information from other researchers. You may use secondary sources in your research, though it’s best practice to search for the primary source that supplied the first-hand information, so cite it directly.

If you don’t have access to the original source, include the original author and the author of the secondary source , with the abbreviation “qtd. in” indicating where you accessed the secondary quote. “Qtd. in” stands for “quoted in.” For example:

• (qtd. in Baa, Baa, Black Sheep 0:15)

Using et al. in MLA citations

As described above, et al. is used instead of listing all names of three or more authors, editors or contributors within your citations. It can also cite collections of essays, stories or poems with three or more contributors. When using et al., you should always use the last name of the first writer listed on the source. For example:

• (Earth et al. “September” 0:15)
• Contributors: Earth, Wind and Fire

The most crucial part of in-text citations in MLA style is to keep a consistent and accurate format within the entire body of work. Always use the same punctuation within the in-text citations and the same formatting for sources of the same type. Ensure that double-checking citations is part of your overall proofreading process. All citations, like the written work, should be precise and error-free.

Various tools exist to help you collect and manage your sources and citations. Popular tools include Zotero , EndNote and RefWorks . These tools can create citations for you and keep track of your research documents so you can reference them again if needed. It’s wise to track your sources as they’re included in your writing rather than compiling and citing them when finished.

More resources for writing in MLA format

For the most up-to-date in-text citation information, refer to the MLA Handbook , which can be found online, in bookstores and libraries. The most recent edition of the MLA Handbook is the 9th edition, published in spring 2021.

The MLA also operates the MLA Handbook Plus , a subscription-based digital platform that offers all of the content included in the print edition, plus annual updates and valuable resources, and can be accessed anywhere, whether you’re traveling, at home or in the classroom.

The MLA Style Center offers free online sources on the official MLA style, including templates, questions and answers and advice.

Furman University offers trained consultants for students on campus to provide one-on-one or small-group assistance for writing projects at the Writing & Media Lab (WML). You can make an appointment with a WML Consultant or stop by the James B. Duke Library in the Center for Academic Success (room 002) for on-demand help (subject to scheduling).

The Writing & Media Lab can help with many tasks related to student writing and multimedia projects, including:

• Brainstorming a paper or project
• Outlining your ideas
• Reading through your writing
• Creating a presentation or poster
• Helping you practice your presentation
• Planning a video or podcast
• Revising, proofreading, or editing

Mastering the art of in-text citations in MLA format will ensure that you, as an academic author, will portray yourself as a serious, responsible and factual writer who uses accurate and reliable sources.

The perspectives and thoughts shared in the Furman Blog belong solely to the author and may not align with the official stance or policies of Furman University. All referenced sources were accurate as of the date of publication.

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