Works Cited
“Works Cited” is an MLA-specific label, not a generic synonym for every bibliography or reference list. The authorized MLA Style Center currently points users to the ninth-edition handbook and its core-elements approach for books, articles, websites, and other formats.
In MLA style, a Works Cited list records the sources actually cited in the project. Build each entry from the MLA template of core elements, using only the elements that apply to that source and arranging them in the prescribed sequence.
Key details
Further guidance
Core Elements
Evaluate the source for applicable core elements—such as author, title, container, contributors, version, number, publisher, date, and location—and omit elements that do not apply.
Format Check
Use source-specific MLA examples to confirm punctuation, containers, URLs/DOIs, editions, and other details after building the entry from the core elements.
Purpose
Include works that are actually cited in the project under MLA’s Works Cited framework; distinguish this from a broader reading list or annotated bibliography.
Worked Example
For a book, identify the author, title, publisher, and publication date that apply; for a web article, identify the page title, site/container, date, and location information instead of forcing a book template.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Citations by Format (opens in a new tab)Modern Language Association · Explains that works-cited-list entries are built from MLA core elements and points readers to the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook for current examples.
- How do I cite the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook? (opens in a new tab)Modern Language Association · Confirms the current ninth-edition MLA Handbook boundary for MLA Works Cited guidance.