Essential MLA Disclosures- Identifying the Mandatory Requirements for Academic Writing

Which of the following disclosures are required by the MLA?

The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is widely used in the humanities and social sciences for formatting papers and citing sources. Proper citation and disclosure are essential for academic integrity and ensuring that readers can locate the original sources of information. This article will discuss the required disclosures in MLA style and help you understand which elements must be included in your research papers.

First and foremost, the MLA style requires the inclusion of in-text citations whenever you quote, paraphrase, or summarize information from another source. These citations should be placed in parentheses directly following the relevant information and should include the author’s last name and the page number where the information was found. For example: (Smith 23). This disclosure is crucial for giving credit to the original author and allowing readers to verify the information.

Secondly, a Works Cited page is mandatory in MLA style. This page should be placed at the end of your paper and list all the sources you referenced in your work. Each entry should follow a specific format, which includes the author’s name, the title of the source, the title of the container, other contributors, version or edition, numbers, publisher, publication date, and location. For example:

Smith, John. “The Impact of Technology on Society.” Journal of Technology Studies, vol. 12, no. 3, 2020, pp. 45-58.

Thirdly, the MLA style requires the inclusion of a title page. This page should contain the title of your paper, your name, the name of your instructor, and the course number. The title should be centered and bolded, while the rest of the information should be aligned to the left. For example:

Title: The Effects of Social Media on Teenagers

Your Name: Jane Doe

Instructor: Dr. Smith

Course Number: ENGL 101

Fourthly, the MLA style mandates the use of a header on each page of your paper. The header should include your last name and the page number, both aligned to the top right corner of the page. This disclosure is essential for easy navigation and organization of your paper.

Lastly, it is important to note that the MLA style does not require a separate abstract page. However, if your instructor or publication requires an abstract, you should include it following the title page and before the introduction.

In conclusion, the MLA style requires several disclosures to ensure academic integrity and proper citation. These include in-text citations, a Works Cited page, a title page, a header, and, in some cases, an abstract. By adhering to these guidelines, you can effectively communicate your research and give credit to the original authors of the information you use.