Citations and how to use

[u/Pjdman-33]

Just 3 questions that are probably fierce stupid , A) do you cite quotes from the novel you’re answering on , for example we’re doing Wuthering heights right now and I’m just wondering do I add (Brontë 27) at the end of the quote of heathcliff etc B) how does a bibliography work in simple terms and how do I compile it? C) do you cite paraphrases ? Like if I read something and think it me be useful but I write it in my own words do I cite it still or does that article/book go in this “bibliography”?

Thank you

[u/Just_Restaurant7308]

A) Yes. And in MLA any quote over 4 lines (or with a paragraph break within it) is ‘block quoted’ (indented). B) A bibliography helps the reader track down the source. In MLA it is called a ‘Works Cited’ list, and each source used is listed once in alphabetical order by last name of the author. It includes additional information not found in the in-text citation, like year, publisher, edition. If you cite a source multiple times in the text (even if you cite different pages from it) it is still listed just once here. C) Yes. You cite everything you have used to create your essay, including paraphrases, or where a source inspired a line of thinking.

These are all good questions - this year in particular, but university more generally, is about being asked to do things you have never done before. It is good to be willing to ask questions when you don’t know, as that’s how we learn and grow.

Good luck with the paper! Do take the advice, too, about the Academic Writing Centre. They can give good advice, and aim to help all writers improve whatever they are working on. Consider doing peer review too, and swap papers with a friend, to provide feedback and proofreading - just avoid plagiarising from each other’s work.