MLA guidelines, works cited list

MLA-241

Begin the list of works cited on a new page at the end of the paper. Center the title “Works Cited” about one inch from the top of the page. Double-space throughout.

For details about the exact format for specific kinds of sources, consult the Directory to MLA works cited models.

Alphabetizing the list

Alphabetize the list by the last names of the authors (or editors); if a work has no author or editor, alphabetize by the first word of the title other than A, An, or The.

If your list includes two or more works by the same author, use the author’s name for the first entry only. For subsequent entries, use three hyphens followed by a period. List the titles in alphabetical order.

See General guidelines for the MLA works cited list and Directory to MLA works cited models.

Indenting

Do not indent the first line of each works cited entry, but indent any additional lines one-half inch. This technique highlights the names of the authors, making it easy for readers to scan the alphabetized list.

URLs in the works cited list

If you need to include a URL in a works cited entry and it must be divided across lines, break the URL only after a slash or a double slash or before any other mark of punctuation. Do not insert a hyphen at the end of the line. If you will post your project online or submit it electronically and you want your readers to click on your URLs, do not insert any line breaks.

Sample MLA works cited list

Directory to sample student writing in MLA style