MLA Citation Rules: A Guide for the Works Cited Page

Converting Microsoft Word Documents to MLA Format using Google Docs

As you prepare for the works cited page in your research paper or essay, you might find yourself staring at a Microsoft Word document that's not quite in line with MLA format requirements. Converting your document from Word to MLA format is a crucial step in ensuring your work meets academic standards. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of converting your Microsoft Word documents to MLA format using Google Docs.

Tip 1: Understanding the Basics of MLA Format

Before we dive into the conversion process, it's essential to understand the basics of MLA format. The Modern Language Association (MLA) is a formatting style commonly used in the humanities, such as literature and language arts. In MLA format, the works cited page is usually placed at the end of the paper, and entries are formatted with a hanging indent.

Converting Word to MLA Format using Google Docs

Fortunately, converting your Microsoft Word document to MLA format using Google Docs is relatively straightforward. Here's how:

1. Open your Microsoft Word document in Google Docs by clicking on the "File" menu and selecting "Open with > Google Docs."
2. Once your document is open in Google Docs, click on the "Tools" menu and select "Preferences."
3. In the Preferences window, scroll down to the "Format" section and select the MLA template.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process:

1. Click on the "Format" tab in the top navigation bar.
2. Select the "Apply MLA formatting style" button.
3. Google Docs will then apply the MLA format to your document, including the correct font, margins, and indentation.

Tip 2: Formatting In-Text Citations

In MLA format, in-text citations are usually placed at the end of a sentence or quotation. Here's how to format them:

• Author-Page Citation: (Author's Last Name Page Number) Example: (Smith 24)

• Multiple Authors: (Authors' Last Names Page Numbers, separated by commas) Example: (Smith, Johnson, Thompson 12-15)

Tip 3: Formatting the Works Cited Page

The works cited page in MLA format is usually formatted with a hanging indent. Here's how to create one:

1. Select the entire list of entries on your works cited page.
2. Click on the "Format" tab and select "Indentation."
3. In the Indentation window, click on the "Hang indent" checkbox and set the indentation to 0.5 inches.

Tip 4: Handling Sources with No Author

In MLA format, sources with no author are usually formatted with the title in italics. Here's how:

1. Select the entire list of entries without an author.
2. Click on the "Format" tab and select "Italicize titles."
3. Google Docs will then italicize the titles for you.

Tip 5: Checking Your Work

Before submitting your document, make sure to check that it meets MLA format requirements:

• Verify that all in-text citations are correctly formatted.
• Check that the works cited page is properly formatted with a hanging indent.
• Review that all sources are listed correctly, including titles and page numbers.

Conclusion

Converting your Microsoft Word document to MLA format using Google Docs can seem daunting, but by following these practical tips, you'll be able to create a well-formatted works cited page in no time. Remember to understand the basics of MLA format, format in-text citations correctly, and handle sources with no author properly. With practice, converting your documents to MLA format will become second nature!