Different academic disciplines use different citation styles. Understanding which one to use and how is essential.
MLA (Modern Language Association)
**Used in:** Literature, languages, liberal arts
**In-text citation:** (Author Page)
"This is a quote" (Smith 42).
Works Cited Format:
Smith, John. Title of Work. Publisher, Year.
**Best for:** Essays, literary analysis, humanities
APA (American Psychological Association)
**Used in:** Psychology, education, social sciences, business
**In-text citation:** (Author, Year)
"This is a quote" (Smith, 2023, p. 42).
Reference Format:
Smith, J. (2023). Title of work. Publisher.
**Best for:** Research papers, empirical studies
Chicago Style
**Used in:** History, some social sciences
Footnote/Endnote:
¹ John Smith, Title (Publisher, 2023), p. 42.
Bibliography:
Smith, John. Title. Publisher, 2023.
**Best for:** Historical papers, detailed citations
How to Know Which to Use
Check your syllabus or ask your professor. Different classes may use different styles.