Research
citations & formatting
MLA 8
MLA 8 Guide (A WHS Quick Guide)
Reference this extensive list for the latest format to follow depending on the source you are using.
Note: Each source now includes all the same core elements with punctuation between elements limited to a period or comma only.
Online Writing Lab at Purdue (aka OWL@Purdue) (Be sure to reference this site to answer the complex questions or look up specific sources)
In-Text Citations & Formatting
Rules for in-text citations did not change with the new MLA 8 Update.
APA
For some subject areas or contents you may be asked to cite your papers or projects using APA style. It differs from MLA, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the different rules and follow the guidelines. Use the link below to reference the OWL @ Purdue writing lab about APA.
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PRIMARY VS. SECONDARY SOURCES
When evaluating information, it is useful to identify if it's a Primary or Secondary source. By doing so, you will be able recognize if the author is reporting on his/her own first hand experiences, or relying on the views of others.
PRIMARY SOURCE
A first person account by someone who experienced or witnessed an event. The original document has not been previously published or interpreted by anyone else.
Examples include:
First person account of an event
First publication of a scientific study
Speech or lecture
Original artwork
Handwritten manuscript
Letters between two people
A diary
Historical documents, e.g. Bill of Rights
SECONDARY SOURCE
One step removed from the primary original source. The author is reexamining, interpreting and forming conclusions based on the information conveyed in the primary source.
Examples include:
Newspaper reporting on a scientific study
Review of a music CD or art show
Biography