The Modern Language Association (MLA) Style for writing and formatting research papers is the recommended format of the Brunswick High School English Department. The introductory material below covers what MLA Style is, why it is used, and who should apply this style to their work.
Note: The content here should address most of your basic questions about using MLA Style. However, if you are writing a complex document such as a thesis or lengthy manuscript, or if you have detailed questions, you should consult the MLA Handbook (8th Edition), which you can usually find at your local library or in many bookstores.
The MLA also has a website called the MLA Style Center that allows you to order the handbook online. The site also includes resources for students and teachers as well as answers to frequently asked questions on basic details of MLA Style.
What is MLA Style?
MLA Style establishes standards of written communication concerning:
- formatting and page layout
- stylistic technicalities (e.g. abbreviations, footnotes, quotations)
- citing sources
- and preparing a manscript for publication in certain disciplines.
Why Use MLA?
Using MLA Style properly makes it easier for readers to navigate and comprehend a text by providing familiar cues when referring to sources and borrowed information. Editors and instructors also encourage everyone to use the same format so there is consistency of style within a given field. Abiding by MLA’s standards as a writer will allow you to:
- Provide your readers with cues they can use to follow your ideas more efficiently and to locate information of interest to them
- Allow readers to focus more on your ideas by not distracting them with unfamiliar or complicated formatting
- Establish your credibility or ethos in the field by demonstrating an awareness of your audience and their needs as fellow researchers (particularly concerning the citing of references)
The following links are ideal resources to guide your application of MLA standards: