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What Is a Works Cited Page?

GlossaryUpdated October 27, 20262 min read

A works cited page is the list of sources that appears at the end of a research paper written in MLA style, the format of the Modern Language Association, widely used in literature, languages and the humanities. It includes only the works that you actually cite in the text, and it gives readers the information they need to find them.

Format

In MLA style:

  • Title: the words Works Cited, centered at the top of a new page.
  • Order: entries in alphabetical order by the first element, usually the author's last name.
  • Spacing: double-spaced throughout, without extra space between entries.
  • Hanging indent: the first line of each entry is flush with the margin, and the following lines are indented by half an inch.
  • Entries: use the MLA core elements in order.

The core elements

MLA entries are built from a set of elements, which are included when available:

  1. Author.
  2. Title of source.
  3. Title of container, such as the journal, website or book that holds the source.
  4. Other contributors, such as editors or translators.
  5. Version.
  6. Number, such as volume and issue.
  7. Publisher.
  8. Publication date.
  9. Location, such as page numbers, a DOI or a URL.

Each element ends with a comma or period, according to the pattern.

An example

A journal article entry might look like this: Smith, Jordan. "Water Use in Urban Gardens." Journal of Environmental Studies, vol. 12, no. 3, 2024, pp. 45-60.

Connecting to in-text citations

In MLA, in-text citations give the author's last name and a page number in parentheses, such as (Smith 47). Each in-text citation must lead the reader to an entry in the works cited list, usually through the author's name. If you cite two works by the same author, add a short title.

Common mistakes

  • Including sources not cited in the paper.
  • Missing entries for sources that are cited.
  • Wrong order or indentation.
  • Inconsistent capitalization of titles.
  • Leaving out the container or location.
  • Trusting generated entries without checking.

Tips

  • Keep records of source details while you research.
  • Use the current MLA handbook or a reliable online guide.
  • Check examples for unusual sources, such as videos or social media.
  • Ask your instructor if you are unsure about requirements.

Related terms

See bibliography, citation style, DOI, primary source and secondary source.

Frequently asked questions

What goes on a works cited page?

Only the sources you cited in your paper, listed alphabetically by author's last name, with details such as title, container, publisher, date and location.

How is it different from a bibliography?

A bibliography may list all sources consulted, while a works cited page lists only the sources you cite. Some teachers use the terms loosely, so check the assignment.

How do I format a works cited page in MLA?

Start on a new page, center the title, list entries alphabetically, double-space and use a hanging indent, where the first line is flush left and later lines are indented.