How to Do an MLA Citation in Google Docs

So, you're working on a paper and need to format your citations in MLA style using Google Docs. It might sound a bit intimidating at first, but fear not! Once you get the hang of it, it's a breeze. We'll walk through the process together, step by step, to make sure you can handle MLA citations like a pro.

Why MLA Citation Matters

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of formatting, let's talk about why MLA citation is important. The Modern Language Association (MLA) format is commonly used in the humanities, especially in subjects like English and history. It helps maintain consistency and credibility in academic writing. Proper citations not only give credit to original authors but also allow readers to locate the sources of information easily. It's a small yet significant part of your writing that shows attention to detail and respect for intellectual property.

Setting Up Your Google Docs for MLA Format

First things first, let's make sure your Google Docs is set up to handle MLA formatting. It's like setting up your workspace before getting into the zone. Here's what you need to do:

• Font and Size: Use a legible font like Times New Roman, size 12. This is pretty standard for MLA format.
• Margins: Set your page margins to 1 inch on all sides. You can adjust this by clicking on "File" > "Page setup."
• Line Spacing: Double-space your document. This is crucial for readability and is a requirement in MLA format.
• Header: Add a header with your last name and page number. Click "Insert" > "Header & page number" > "Page number." Type your last name before the number.

Now, your document is all set to start adding those MLA citations!

Creating a Works Cited Page

The Works Cited page is where you list all the sources you've referenced in your paper. It's like the credits at the end of a movie, acknowledging everyone who contributed. Here's how to create one:

1. At the end of your document, insert a new page by pressing "Ctrl + Enter" (or "Command + Enter" on a Mac).
2. Type "Works Cited" at the top, centered.
3. List your sources in alphabetical order by the author's last name.
4. Use a hanging indent for each entry. This means the first line of each citation is flush left, while subsequent lines are indented. You can set this up by highlighting your citations, right-clicking, choosing "Paragraph," and setting a hanging indent.

And voila! Your Works Cited page is ready to roll.

In-Text Citations: The Basics

In-text citations are little notes within your paper that point readers to the full citation in your Works Cited page. Think of them like breadcrumbs leading to the source. Here's how to do them:

Whenever you quote or paraphrase a source, include the author's last name and the page number in parentheses at the end of the sentence. For example:

"To be, or not to be, that is the question" (Shakespeare 55).

If the author's name is mentioned in the sentence, just include the page number in parentheses:

Shakespeare poses the question of existence in his play (55).

Simple, right? Just remember to match your in-text citations with the correct entries in your Works Cited list.

Handling Different Types of Sources

Not all sources are created equal, especially in the world of citations. Books, articles, websites - they each have their quirks. Here's how to handle a few common ones:

Books

For books, include the author's name, book title (italicized), publisher, and year of publication. Here's an example:

Smith, John. *The Joy of Writing*. Writing Press, 2020.

Articles

Articles usually come from journals or magazines. Include the author's name, article title (in quotes), publication name (italicized), volume and issue numbers, year, and page range:

Doe, Jane. "The Art of Citation." *Journal of Writing*, vol. 5, no. 2, 2019, pp. 45-67.

Websites

For websites, list the author (if available), title of the webpage, website name (italicized), publication date, and the URL. Remember, no "https://" prefix is needed:

"How to Cite in MLA." *MLA Style Center*, Modern Language Association, 2021, www.mla.org/citation.

With these examples in mind, you're ready to tackle a variety of sources.

Using Google Docs Citation Tool

Google Docs has a built-in citation tool that can make your life a lot easier. It's like having a personal assistant for your bibliography. Here's how to use it:

1. Go to "Tools" > "Citations" from the menu.
2. Select "Add citation source."
3. Choose the source type (e.g., book, website) and fill in the details.
4. Click "Add citation source" once you're done.

The tool will save your sources, and you can easily insert them into your document whenever needed. It's a handy feature that saves time and reduces errors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

As with anything, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for when working with MLA citations. Here's a quick rundown:

• Incorrect Formatting: Double-check your entries for italicization, punctuation, and order of information.
• Missing Citations: Ensure every source used is cited both in-text and in the Works Cited page.
• Outdated Sources: Use the most current and reliable sources to maintain credibility.

By avoiding these mistakes, you'll keep your citations in top shape.

Spell: Your AI Document Editor

Now, if you're looking for a way to make document writing even easier, you might want to check out Spell. It's like having Google Docs with a built-in AI assistant. You can generate drafts, edit using natural language, and collaborate with your team in real time. It's perfect for anyone who wants to save time and still produce high-quality documents.

Checking Your Work

Before you wrap up your paper, it's a good idea to go through everything one last time. Check your citations and make sure they match up with your Works Cited page. This is also the perfect time to use tools like Spell to refine your work. You can highlight text and ask Spell to make changes, which is a real time-saver compared to copy-pasting between tools.

Remember, attention to detail can make a big difference in the overall quality of your paper.

Final Thoughts

Mastering MLA citations in Google Docs is a valuable skill that helps your work shine. With a bit of practice, you'll find it becomes second nature. And for those times when you need a little extra help, Spell is there to assist with drafting and editing, making the process smoother and more efficient. Give it a try, and you'll see how much easier writing can be!