ProfBTV: Creating a Works Cited Page for a Newspaper or Magazine Article in MLA Style

ProfBTV: Creating a Works Cited Page for a Newspaper or Magazine Article in MLA Style

MLA Formatting: Creating a Works Cited Page

Overview of MLA Style Requirements

  • The video introduces the general requirements for formatting a Works Cited page according to the MLA Handbook 9th Edition, emphasizing its importance in college papers that utilize external sources.
  • It contrasts MLA style with APA style, noting that while both have similar formatting requirements, they are used in different academic contexts.

Importance of Learning Formatting

  • The speaker highlights that once students learn the specific formatting guidelines for MLA style, they can apply them across various classes.
  • A Works Cited page is required as part of the final draft of any paper, even if it has been submitted separately before.

Critique of Citation Tools

  • The speaker expresses skepticism about citation tools like EasyBib, stating they often produce incorrect citations and emphasizing the need for students to learn proper citation methods themselves.

Recommended Software for Formatting

  • Microsoft Word Online is recommended for creating documents requiring MLA formatting due to its comprehensive features compared to other word processors like Google Docs or Apple Pages.

Accessing Microsoft Word Online

  • Instructions are provided on how TSC students can access Microsoft Word Online through their email accounts by navigating from the TSC homepage.

Document Setup in Microsoft Word

  • Students are advised to name their document appropriately (e.g., "Essay One Works Cited Page") for easy identification later.
  • The font type and size must be set according to MLA guidelines; Times New Roman 12-point font is commonly required.

Adjusting Line Spacing and Indentation

  • Instructions include adjusting line spacing settings and setting up a hanging indent, which is essential for properly formatted citations in MLA style.

How to Format a Works Cited Page and Submit it on Canvas

Formatting the Works Cited Page

  • The correct format for a works cited entry includes the author's first name followed by a period, the article's title in quotation marks, and then another period.
  • After the article title, include the publication title in italics, followed by a comma. This is essential for proper citation formatting.
  • Next, add the publication year, month, and day before concluding with a period. Adhering to this structure ensures a perfectly formatted works cited page.

Downloading Your Works Cited Page from Microsoft Word

  • To download your works cited page from Microsoft Word for submission on Canvas, click on "File" and select "Save As," then choose "Download a Copy."
  • It’s important to save the file in your downloads folder; dragging it to your desktop can make it easier to locate later when submitting.

Submitting Your File on Canvas

  • Navigate to your course homepage on Canvas and scroll down to find the designated assignment link. Click on this link to proceed with submission.
  • Click on the blue "Start Assignment" button located in the upper right corner of the assignment page. This process resembles uploading any file or photo online.
  • Select "Choose File" to upload your document; ensure that you check that the file name appears correctly before clicking “Submit Assignment.”