The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is a widely used method for documenting sources in academic writing. Knowing how to properly cite a study guide in MLA format is crucial for avoiding plagiarism and giving credit to the original author. This guide offers a detailed explanation of how to cite a study guide using the MLA 9th edition guidelines, ensuring accuracy and clarity in your citations.
Understanding MLA 9th Edition Core Elements
The MLA 9th edition emphasizes a flexible, principle-based approach to citation. Rather than providing rigid rules for each type of source, it focuses on a set of core elements that apply universally. Understanding these elements is essential for creating accurate Works Cited entries.
Here’s an overview of the core elements, presented in the order they should appear in your citation:
- Author.
- Title of Source.
- Title of Container.
- Other Contributors.
- Version.
- Number.
- Publisher.
- Publication Date.
- Location.
Each element is followed by a specific punctuation mark, as shown above.
Citing a Study Guide in MLA: Step-by-Step
Citing a study guide involves identifying the core elements and presenting them in the correct format. Here’s how to do it:
1. Author:
- Begin with the author’s last name, followed by a comma, and then the first name (or initials).
- End this element with a period.
- Example: Smith, John.
2. Title of Source:
- The title of the study guide should be italicized if it’s a standalone publication. If it’s part of a larger work, use quotation marks.
- Example (Standalone): AP Biology Study Guide.
- Example (Part of a Series): “Chapter 3: Cell Structure.”
3. Title of Container:
- The “container” is the larger work the study guide belongs to, such as a series or website. Italicize the container’s title.
- Example: The Princeton Review AP Biology Prep.
- If the study guide is found on a website, the website name is the container.
4. Other Contributors:
- Include any other relevant contributors, such as editors or illustrators, if their contributions are significant.
- Example: Edited by Jane Doe.
5. Version:
- If the study guide is a specific edition or version, include that information.
- Example: 3rd ed.
6. Number:
- Include volume and issue numbers if the study guide is part of a numbered series.
7. Publisher:
- The publisher is the company or organization that produced the study guide.
- Example: Barron’s Educational Series.
8. Publication Date:
- Provide the year the study guide was published. If the full date is available, use it.
- Example: 2023.
9. Location:
- For print study guides, this is typically not applicable. For online study guides, include the URL.
- Example: www.example.com/ap-biology-study-guide.
Examples of MLA Citations for Study Guides
Here are a few examples of how to cite different types of study guides in MLA format:
Example 1: Print Study Guide
Smith, John. AP Biology Study Guide. Barron’s Educational Series, 2023.
Example 2: Online Study Guide
Doe, Jane. “Chapter 3: Cell Structure.” The Princeton Review AP Biology Prep, Princeton Review, 2022, www.example.com/chapter3.
Example 3: Study Guide in a Container within a Container
“Mendelian Genetics.” CliffsNotes AP Biology, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2021. Quizlet, quizlet.com/12345/mendelian-genetics-flash-cards/. Accessed 15 July 2024.
Optional Elements
MLA 9th edition allows for optional elements to be included if they provide additional helpful information. These include:
- Date of Original Publication: If the study guide is a reprint or revised edition, including the original publication date can be useful.
- City of Publication: While not always necessary, it can be included for works published before 1900 or when the city is relevant.
- Date of Access: For online sources, including the date you accessed the material is recommended, as content can change.
In-Text Citations
In-text citations are brief references within your text that point to the full citation in the Works Cited list. They typically include the author’s last name and the page number (if available) in parentheses.
Example: (Smith 25).
If the author’s name is mentioned in the sentence, only include the page number in the citation.
Example: According to Smith, “…” (25).
Citing Study Guides with No Author
If the study guide does not have a specific author, begin the citation with the title of the study guide.
Example: SAT Prep Guide. Kaplan Publishing, 2024.
Citing the Purdue OWL
The Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab) is a valuable resource for MLA formatting. To cite the entire website:
The Purdue OWL. Purdue U Writing Lab, 2024, owl.purdue.edu/owl/index.html.
To cite an individual resource:
“How To Cite A Study Guide In Mla Format.” The Purdue OWL, Purdue U Writing Lab, owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/how_to_cite_a_study_guide_in_mla_format.html. Accessed 15 July 2024.
Conclusion
Mastering how to cite a study guide in MLA format is a fundamental skill for academic integrity. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your citations are accurate, complete, and properly formatted, giving credit where it’s due and enhancing the credibility of your work. Remember to consult the MLA Handbook for the most up-to-date information and specific examples.
Works Cited
- The MLA Handbook. 9th ed., Modern Language Association of America, 2021.
- The Purdue OWL. Purdue U Writing Lab, 2024, owl.purdue.edu/owl/index.html.
