MLA (Modern Language Association) style is widely used in the humanities — especially English, languages and cultural studies. It uses brief in-text citations and a “Works Cited” list. This complete UK guide explains how MLA in-text citations work, how to format the Works Cited page, the MLA core-elements system for any source, and how MLA differs from Harvard and APA.
What Is MLA Style?
MLA is an author-page referencing system common in the humanities. In-text citations give the author and a page number, and full details appear in a Works Cited list at the end.
In-Text Citations
Cite with the author's surname and page number, usually in brackets: (Smith 42). If the author is named in your sentence, just give the page: “Smith argues… (42)”. No comma between name and page.
The Core Elements System
Modern MLA builds every reference from nine core elements: author, title of source, title of container, other contributors, version, number, publisher, publication date, and location. This flexible system handles any source type.
Formatting the Works Cited Page
List entries alphabetically by author surname, double-spaced with a hanging indent. A typical book entry gives: Author. Title. Publisher, Year. Follow MLA punctuation precisely.
MLA vs Harvard and APA
MLA uses author-page; APA uses author-date; Harvard is author-date with variations. MLA suits the humanities, while APA and Harvard dominate the social sciences. See our Harvard and APA 7 guides.
Common Mistakes and Tips
✓ Adding a comma between author and page.
✓ Using a year instead of a page in-text.
✓ Inconsistent Works Cited formatting.
✓ Missing hanging indents. Tip: use the core-elements system and check your institution's MLA edition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is MLA referencing?
An author-page referencing style common in the humanities, with a Works Cited list.
How do MLA in-text citations work?
They give the author surname and page number, e.g. (Smith 42).
What are the MLA core elements?
Nine elements — author, title, container, contributors, version, number, publisher, date and location — used to build any reference.
What is a Works Cited page?
The alphabetical list of full references at the end of an MLA document.
How is MLA different from APA?
MLA uses author-page citations; APA uses author-date.
Do I put a comma between author and page?
No — MLA in-text citations have no comma, e.g. (Smith 42).
When should I use MLA?
In humanities subjects such as English and languages, or when your tutor requires it.
Does MLA use footnotes?
Generally no — it uses in-text citations and a Works Cited list.
Related Study Guides
Harvard Referencing Guide • How to Reference in APA 7 • Vancouver Referencing Guide • How to Avoid Plagiarism
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