• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • RANDOM QUIZ
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • This Or That Game New
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • Education and Communications
  • College University and Postgraduate
  • Academic Writing

How to Cite an Essay

Last Updated: February 4, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Diya Chaudhuri, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Diya Chaudhuri holds a PhD in Creative Writing (specializing in Poetry) from Georgia State University. She has over 5 years of experience as a writing tutor and instructor for both the University of Florida and Georgia State University. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 555,736 times.

If you're writing a research paper, whether as a student or a professional researcher, you might want to use an essay as a source. You'll typically find essays published in another source, such as an edited book or collection. When you discuss or quote from the essay in your paper, use an in-text citation to relate back to the full entry listed in your list of references at the end of your paper. While the information in the full reference entry is basically the same, the format differs depending on whether you're using the Modern Language Association (MLA), American Psychological Association (APA), or Chicago citation method.

Template and Examples

cite a essay

  • Example: Potter, Harry.

Step 2 List the title of the essay in quotation marks.

  • Example: Potter, Harry. "My Life with Voldemort."

Step 3 Provide the title and authors or editors of the larger work.

  • Example: Potter, Harry. "My Life with Voldemort." Great Thoughts from Hogwarts Alumni , by Bathilda Backshot,

Step 4 Add publication information for the larger work.

  • Example: Potter, Harry. "My Life with Voldemort." Great Thoughts from Hogwarts Alumni , by Bathilda Backshot, Hogwarts Press, 2019,

Step 5 Include the page numbers where the essay is found.

  • Example: Potter, Harry. "My Life with Voldemort." Great Thoughts from Hogwarts Alumni , by Bathilda Backshot, Hogwarts Press, 2019, pp. 22-42.

MLA Works Cited Entry Format:

LastName, FirstName. "Title of Essay." Title of Collection , by FirstName Last Name, Publisher, Year, pp. ##-##.

Step 6 Use the author's last name and the page number for in-text citations.

  • For example, you might write: While the stories may seem like great adventures, the students themselves were terribly frightened to confront Voldemort (Potter 28).
  • If you include the author's name in the text of your paper, you only need the page number where the referenced material can be found in the parenthetical at the end of your sentence.
  • If you have several authors with the same last name, include each author's first initial in your in-text citation to differentiate them.
  • For several titles by the same author, include a shortened version of the title after the author's name (if the title isn't mentioned in your text).

Step 1 Place the author's name first in your Reference List entry.

  • Example: Granger, H.

Step 2 Add the year the larger work was published.

  • Example: Granger, H. (2018).

Step 3 Include the title of the essay.

  • Example: Granger, H. (2018). Adventures in time turning.

Step 4 Provide the author and title of the larger work.

  • Example: Granger, H. (2018). Adventures in time turning. In M. McGonagall (Ed.), Reflections on my time at Hogwarts

Step 5 List the page range for the essay and the publisher of the larger work.

  • Example: Granger, H. (2018). Adventures in time turning. In M. McGonagall (Ed.), Reflections on my time at Hogwarts (pp. 92-130). Hogwarts Press.

APA Reference List Entry Format:

LastName, I. (Year). Title of essay. In I. LastName (Ed.), Title of larger work (pp. ##-##). Publisher.

Step 6 Use the author's last name and year of publication for in-text citations.

  • For example, you might write: By using a time turner, a witch or wizard can appear to others as though they are actually in two places at once (Granger, 2018).
  • If you use the author's name in the text of your paper, include the parenthetical with the year immediately after the author's name. For example, you might write: Although technically against the rules, Granger (2018) maintains that her use of a time turner was sanctioned by the head of her house.
  • Add page numbers if you quote directly from the source. Simply add a comma after the year, then type the page number or page range where the quoted material can be found, using the abbreviation "p." for a single page or "pp." for a range of pages.

Step 1 Start your Bibliography entry with the name of the author of the essay.

  • Example: Weasley, Ron.

Step 2 Include the title of the essay in quotation marks.

  • Example: Weasley, Ron. "Best Friend to a Hero."

Step 3 Add the title and editor of the larger work along with page numbers for the essay.

  • Example: Weasley, Ron. "Best Friend to a Hero." In Harry Potter: Wizard, Myth, Legend , edited by Xenophilius Lovegood, 80-92.

Step 4 Provide publication information for the larger work.

  • Example: Weasley, Ron. "Best Friend to a Hero." In Harry Potter: Wizard, Myth, Legend , edited by Xenophilius Lovegood, 80-92. Ottery St. Catchpole: Quibbler Books, 2018.

' Chicago Bibliography Format:

LastName, FirstName. "Title of Essay." In Title of Book or Essay Collection , edited by FirstName LastName, ##-##. Location: Publisher, Year.

Step 5 Adjust your formatting for footnotes.

  • Example: Ron Weasley, "Best Friend to a Hero," in Harry Potter: Wizard, Myth, Legend , edited by Xenophilius Lovegood, 80-92 (Ottery St. Catchpole: Quibbler Books, 2018).
  • After the first footnote, use a shortened footnote format that includes only the author's last name, the title of the essay, and the page number or page range where the referenced material appears.

Tip: If you use the Chicago author-date system for in-text citation, use the same in-text citation method as APA style.

Community Q&A

wikiHow Staff Editor

You Might Also Like

Cite a Song

  • ↑ https://style.mla.org/essay-in-authored-textbook/
  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_works_cited_page_books.html
  • ↑ https://utica.libguides.com/c.php?g=703243&p=4991646
  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_in_text_citations_the_basics.html
  • ↑ https://guides.libraries.psu.edu/apaquickguide/intext
  • ↑ https://guides.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/c.php?g=27779&p=170363
  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/in_text_citations_the_basics.html
  • ↑ http://libguides.heidelberg.edu/chicago/book/chapter
  • ↑ https://librarybestbets.fairfield.edu/citationguides/chicagonotes-bibliography#CollectionofEssays
  • ↑ https://libguides.heidelberg.edu/chicago/book/chapter

About This Article

Diya Chaudhuri, PhD

To cite an essay using MLA format, include the name of the author and the page number of the source you’re citing in the in-text citation. For example, if you’re referencing page 123 from a book by John Smith, you would include “(Smith 123)” at the end of the sentence. Alternatively, include the information as part of the sentence, such as “Rathore and Chauhan determined that Himalayan brown bears eat both plants and animals (6652).” Then, make sure that all your in-text citations match the sources in your Works Cited list. For more advice from our Creative Writing reviewer, including how to cite an essay in APA or Chicago Style, keep reading. Did this summary help you? Yes No

  • Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Mbarek Oukhouya

Mbarek Oukhouya

Mar 7, 2017

Did this article help you?

Mbarek Oukhouya

Sarah Sandy

May 25, 2017

Skyy DeRouge

Skyy DeRouge

Nov 14, 2021

Diana Ordaz

Diana Ordaz

Sep 25, 2016

Am I a Narcissist or an Empath Quiz

Featured Articles

Make Your School More Period Friendly

Trending Articles

8 Reasons Why Life Sucks & 15 Ways to Deal With It

Watch Articles

Fold Boxer Briefs

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

  • Plagiarism and grammar
  • Citation guides
  • Cite This For Me™ Premium

Create Harvard, APA & MLA citations

Powered by chegg.

Start a new citation or manage your existing projects.

Scan your paper for plagiarism.

Check your paper for grammar and plagiarism

Catch plagiarism and grammar mistakes with Chegg's paper checker

Cite smarter, worry less with Cite This For Me™ Premium

Upgrade to save your work, check for plagiarism, and more!

cite using APA, MLA, Chicago and more

Cite sources the easy way

Easily create references with our citation generator for 50+ source types.

check for potential plagiarism

Catch unintentional plagiarism

Mistakes happen. Find and fix them before your teacher does with our helpful plagiarism checker.

Choose your online writing help

Cite smarter, worry less with cite this for me premium, upgrade to save your work, check with plagiarism, and more, welcome to cite this for me™, about cite this for me™.

Cite This For Me™ was launched in October 2010, we began with the mission of helping students quickly create citations. Since then, the Cite This For Me™ citation generator has assisted millions of students across the world including in the United Kingdom, Canada, United States, Australia, and beyond. Our tools are designed to help you quickly prepare an entire bibliography or reference list. Even if you know very little about references, our forms and automatic citation features can help guide you through the process and tell you what information is needed. This means less guessing for you and an easier citation process! Nearly any style you can think of is supported by the Cite This For Me™ citation generator, including Harvard referencing, APA (American Psychological Association) style, MLA (Modern Language Association) style, Chicago style, Vancouver, and thousands of others.

Why citing matters

Citing isn’t something you usually think about, but it’s important nonetheless. You already do it in your everyday life without realising it. Have you ever said, “I heard on XYZ News that . . . “, or “I read in XYZ that those two celebrities are dating”, or even “Mom said that you can’t do that”. By saying where you got your information, you are casually citing a source. We do this because it gives credibility to what we say, but also because it credits the originator of the information. It also allows others to follow up if they need more information. Formal citing done for papers and projects takes this a step further. In addition to the reasons mentioned above, citing sources in academia provides evidence of your research process and helps you avoid plagiarism. Plagiarism is a word you never want to hear describing your work. You’ve probably seen headlines in the news and heard stories in school about the negative consequences of plagiarism. It’s not good but it is preventable. By creating references and citations with Cite This For Me™ tools you’re taking steps to help avoid this.

Start citing easily with Cite This For Me™

Click the button “Create citations” to begin. You’ll be prompted to choose a source type and guided through the rest of the citing process. For source types like websites, journal articles, and books, the Cite This For Me™ citation generator automatically tries to find your source’s information based on details you provide. That could be anything from the author’s name to the source’s URL to the article’s DOI number. This makes citing more efficient and helps you easily create references and citations for your paper in a timely manner.

Citation guides: Understanding it all

Beyond simply creating references or citations, most citation styles have additional guidelines about paper formatting, in-text citations, and other details. Cite This For Me™ citation guides cover a lot of this additional information, so your paper is more properly prepped and less likely to get points taken off for these details. The guides cover several citation styles, but the most popular are Harvard referencing , APA format , MLA format , and Chicago style .

Looking for more? Check out Cite This For Me™ Premium

A good paper references several sources. Multiply that with the several papers most schools assign in a year, and you get dozens of sources that will need to be cited within your academic career. That’s a lot of references to create, sort through, and keep track of. That’s where Cite This For Me™ Premium comes in. With a premium account you can cite as many sources as you want, organize the sources into bibliographies, and save ALL of those bibliographies so you can easily refer back to your references. It’s a great way to manage your bibliographies and cite with confidence.

  • Style Guides
  • Chrome Extension
  • Terms of Use
  • Global Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Notice
  • Cookie Settings
  • Plagiarism and grammar
  • Citation guides

Citation Machine® — Write Smarter

Start a new citation or manage your existing bibliographies.

Scan your paper for plagiarism and grammar errors.

Check your paper for grammar and plagiarism

Catch plagiarism and grammar mistakes with our paper checker

Use Citation Machine® Plus to get smart recommendations!

Scan your paper for unintentional plagiarism and get advanced recommendations for sentence structure, writing style, grammar and more!

  • expert check

cite using APA, MLA, Chicago and more

Know you're citing correctly

No matter what citation style you're using (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) we'll help you create the right bibliography

check for potential plagiarism

Check for unintentional plagiarism

Scan your paper the way your teacher would to catch unintentional plagiarism. Then, easily add the right citation

experts will proofread your paper

Strengthen your writing

Give your paper an in-depth check. Receive feedback within 24 hours from writing experts on your paper's main idea, structure, conclusion, and more.

check for grammar mistakes and writing issues

Find and fix grammar errors

Don't give up sweet paper points for small mistakes. Our algorithms flag grammar and writing issues and provide smart suggestions

See what's included with Citation Machine® Plus

Citation machine® guides & resources, mla format: everything you need to know and more.

Filled with a wide variety of examples and visuals, our Citation Machine® MLA guide will help you master the citation process. Learn how to cite websites, books, journal articles, magazines, newspapers, films, social media, and more!

MLA Citation Generator | Website | Books | Journal Articles | YouTube | Images | Movies | Interview | PDFs

Comprehensive Guide to APA Format

Our Citation Machine® APA guide is a one-stop shop for learning how to cite in APA format. Read up on what APA is, or use our citing tools and APA examples to create citations for websites, books, journals, and more!

APA Citation Generator | Website | Books | Journal Articles | YouTube | Images | Movies | Interview | PDFs

Everything You Need to Know About Chicago Style

Creating citations in Chicago style has never been easier thanks to our extensive Citation Machine® Chicago style guide and tools. Learn about footnotes, endnotes, and everything in between, or easily create citations for websites, books, journal articles, and more!

Chicago Citation Generator | Website | Books | Journal Articles | YouTube | Images | Movies | Interview | PDFs

Citation Machine®’s Ultimate Writing Guides

Whether you’re a student, writer, foreign language learner, or simply looking to brush up on your grammar skills, our comprehensive grammar guides provide an extensive overview on over 50 grammar-related topics. Confused about reflexive verbs, demonstrative adjectives, or conjunctive adverbs? Look no further! Learn about these grammar topics and many, many more in our thorough and easy to understand reference guides!

Citing Sources Guide | Grammar Guide | Plagiarism Guide | Writing Tips

Student Blog

Stay up to date! Get research tips and citation information or just enjoy some fun posts from our student blog.

  • Citation Machine® Plus
  • Citation Guides
  • Chicago Style
  • Harvard Referencing
  • Terms of Use
  • Global Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Notice
  • DO NOT SELL MY INFO
  • Free Tools for Students
  • MLA Citation Generator

Free MLA Citation Generator

Generate accurate citations in MLA format automatically, with MyBib!

MLA 9 guidebook cover

😕 What is an MLA Citation Generator?

An MLA citation generator is a software tool designed to automatically create academic citations in the Modern Language Association (MLA) citation format. The generator will take information such as document titles, author, and URLs as in input, and output fully formatted citations that can be inserted into the Works Cited page of an MLA-compliant academic paper.

The citations on a Works Cited page show the external sources that were used to write the main body of the academic paper, either directly as references and quotes, or indirectly as ideas.

👩‍🎓 Who uses an MLA Citation Generator?

MLA style is most often used by middle school and high school students in preparation for transition to college and further education. Ironically, MLA style is not actually used all that often beyond middle and high school, with APA (American Psychological Association) style being the favored style at colleges across the country.

It is also important at this level to learn why it's critical to cite sources, not just how to cite them.

🙌 Why should I use a Citation Generator?

Writing citations manually is time consuming and error prone. Automating this process with a citation generator is easy, straightforward, and gives accurate results. It's also easier to keep citations organized and in the correct order.

The Works Cited page contributes to the overall grade of a paper, so it is important to produce accurately formatted citations that follow the guidelines in the official MLA Handbook .

⚙️ How do I use MyBib's MLA Citation Generator?

It's super easy to create MLA style citations with our MLA Citation Generator. Scroll back up to the generator at the top of the page and select the type of source you're citing. Books, journal articles, and webpages are all examples of the types of sources our generator can cite automatically. Then either search for the source, or enter the details manually in the citation form.

The generator will produce a formatted MLA citation that can be copied and pasted directly into your document, or saved to MyBib as part of your overall Works Cited page (which can be downloaded fully later!).

MyBib supports the following for MLA style:

Image of daniel-elias

Daniel is a qualified librarian, former teacher, and citation expert. He has been contributing to MyBib since 2018.

  • Plagiarism and grammar
  • School access

The best papers start with EasyBib®

Powered by chegg.

Start a new citation or manage your existing projects.

Scan your paper for plagiarism and grammar errors.

Check your paper for grammar and plagiarism

Catch plagiarism and grammar mistakes with our paper checker

Wipe out writing errors with EasyBib® Plus

Double check for plagiarism mistakes and advanced grammar errors before you turn in your paper.

  • expert check

cite using APA, MLA, Chicago and more

Know you're citing correctly

No matter what citation style you're using (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) we'll help you create the right bibliography

check for potential plagiarism

Check for unintentional plagiarism

Scan your paper the way your teacher would to catch unintentional plagiarism. Then, easily add the right citation

experts will proofread your paper

Strengthen your writing

Give your paper an in-depth check. Receive feedback within 24 hours from writing experts on your paper's main idea, structure, conclusion, and more.

check for grammar mistakes and writing issues

Find and fix grammar errors

Don't give up sweet paper points for small mistakes. Our algorithms flag grammar and writing issues and provide smart suggestions

Choose your online writing help

Easybib® guides & resources, mla format guide.

This is the total package when it comes to MLA format. Our easy to read guides come complete with examples and step-by-step instructions to format your full and in-text citations, paper, and works cited in MLA style. There’s even information on annotated bibliographies.

Works Cited | In-Text Citations | Bibliography | Annotated Bibliography | Website | Book | Journal | YouTube | View all MLA Citation Examples

APA Format Guide

Get the facts on citing and writing in APA format with our comprehensive guides. Formatting instructions, in-text citation and reference examples, and sample papers provide you with the tools you need to style your paper in APA.

Reference Page | In-Text Citations | Annotated Bibliography | Website | Books | Journal | YouTube | View all APA citation Examples

Chicago Format Guide

Looking to format your paper in Chicago style and not sure where to start? Our guide provides everything you need! Learn the basics and fundamentals to creating references and footnotes in Chicago format. With numerous examples and visuals, you’ll be citing in Chicago style in no time.

Footnotes | Website | Book | Journal

Harvard Referencing Guide

Learn the requirements to properly reference your paper in Harvard style. The guides we have provide the basics and fundamentals to give credit to the sources used in your work.

In-Text Citations | Books | Article | YouTube | View all Harvard Referencing Examples

Check Your Paper

Avoid common grammar mistakes and unintentional plagiarism with our essay checker. Receive personalized feedback to help identify citations that may be missing, and help improve your sentence structure, punctuation, and more to turn in an error-free paper.

Grammar Check | Plagiarism Checker | Spell Check

Learn From Our Innovative Blog

Our blog features current and innovative topics to keep you up to speed on citing and writing. Whether you’re an educator, student, or someone who lives and breathes citations (it’s not as uncommon as you might think!), our blog features new and exciting articles to discover and learn from.

Looking for Other Tools and Resources?

Our Writing Center is jam-packed with tons of exciting resources. Videos, infographics, research guides, and many other citation-related resources are found here. Check it out to find what you need to succeed!

  • EasyBib® Plus
  • Citation Guides
  • Chicago Style Format
  • Terms of Use
  • Global Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Notice
  • DO NOT SELL MY INFO

The Tech Edvocate

  • Advertisement
  • Home Page Five (No Sidebar)
  • Home Page Four
  • Home Page Three
  • Home Page Two
  • Icons [No Sidebar]
  • Left Sidbear Page
  • Lynch Educational Consulting
  • My Speaking Page
  • Newsletter Sign Up Confirmation
  • Newsletter Unsubscription
  • Page Example
  • Privacy Policy
  • Protected Content
  • Request a Product Review
  • Shortcodes Examples
  • Terms and Conditions
  • The Edvocate
  • The Tech Edvocate Product Guide
  • Write For Us
  • Dr. Lynch’s Personal Website
  • The Edvocate Podcast
  • Assistive Technology
  • Child Development Tech
  • Early Childhood & K-12 EdTech
  • EdTech Futures
  • EdTech News
  • EdTech Policy & Reform
  • EdTech Startups & Businesses
  • Higher Education EdTech
  • Online Learning & eLearning
  • Parent & Family Tech
  • Personalized Learning
  • Product Reviews
  • Tech Edvocate Awards
  • School Ratings

Houston Good Brick Tour Includes Midcentury Home That Was One of the ’10 Bestsmall Houses for 1954′

Best things to do in porto, portugal’s second biggest city, the wheel of time’s best character so far stands out above the rest, laika: the astronaut’s best friend in space adventures, omar sy: unveiling his best roles as an actor, 10 best used suvs under $25,000 that are worth every dollar, devon holiday resorts crowned best in south west, 17 unique stocking stuffers for adults that are creative & thoughtful, people either love or hate “saltburn,” so we decided to debate its best andworst parts, the best grilled cheese filling is shredded, but there’s a catch, 4 ways to cite an essay.

cite a essay

When it comes to essay writing, correctly citing sources is essential. Proper citation allows readers to locate the original work and verify the information presented. Additionally, it protects against plagiarism accusations and helps maintain academic integrity. Here are four ways to cite an essay:

1. MLA (Modern Language Association) Style

MLA is a standard citation style for humanities subjects, such as literature and language studies. To cite an essay in MLA style, include the author’s last name, followed by the page number (if available) in parentheses.

For example: (Smith 35)

In your Works Cited page, provide a complete reference with the following format: Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Essay.” Title of Collection, edited by Editor’s Name(s), Publisher, Year Published, Pages of Essay.

For example: Smith, John. “An Analysis of Shakespeare’s Plays.” The Complete Works of Shakespeare, edited by Jane Doe, McGraw-Hill, 2019, pp. 25-50.

2. APA (American Psychological Association) Style

APA citation style is commonly used in social sciences disciplines such as psychology and sociology. In-text citations include the author’s last name and publication year in parentheses.

For example: (Smith, 2019)

The reference list should include the following format:

Author’s Last Name, First Initial. (Year Published). Title of essay. In Editor’s Initial(s). Last Name (Ed(s).), Title of

Collection (pp. starting page-end page). Publisher.

For example: Smith, J.(2019). An Analysis of Shakespeare’s Plays. In J.Doe (Ed.), The Complete Works of

Shakespeare (pp. 25-50). McGraw-Hill.

3. Chicago/Turabian Style

The Chicago/Turabian style is widely used in various fields like history and anthropology. To cite an essay in this style, use footnotes at the bottom of the page that include the author’s name, title of the essay, and publication information.

For example:

^1John Smith, “An Analysis of Shakespeare’s Plays,” in The Complete Works of Shakespeare, ed. Jane Doe (New

York: McGraw-Hill, 2019), 30.

In your bibliography, follow this format:

Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Essay.” In Title of Collection, edited by Editor’s First Name Last Name.

City: Publisher, Year Published.

For example: Smith, John. “An Analysis of Shakespeare’s Plays.” In The Complete Works of Shakespeare, edited by Jane Doe. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2019.

4. Harvard Style

Harvard citation style is another widely used format in various academic disciplines. In-text citations include the author’s last name and publication year in parentheses.

For example: (Smith 2019)

In your reference list:

Author’s Last Name, First Initial(s). (Year Published). Title of essay. In Editor’s First Initial(s). Last Name (Ed.), Title of Collection (pp. starting page-end page). Publisher.

For example: Smith, J. (2019) ‘An Analysis of Shakespeare’s Plays’, in J. Doe (ed.), The Complete Works of Shakespeare (pp. 25-50). McGraw-Hill.

Remember always to consult your instructor or specific style guides for any additional requirements or variations from these standard formats. By employing one of these four methods to cite an essay accurately, you can maintain academic integrity and ensure that your work is professionally presented.

The 14 Best Nicolas Cage Movies, Ranked

10 best sci-fi tropes star trek popularized.

' src=

Matthew Lynch

Related articles more from author.

cite a essay

How to Kill Fleas Naturally

cite a essay

How to Play Five Stones

cite a essay

How to Assume a Car Loan: 15 Steps

cite a essay

How to Build a Rat Rod: 14 Steps

cite a essay

3 Ways to Dye Hair with Leopard Spots

cite a essay

How to Sleep with Hip Pain: 12 Steps

  • Research Guides
  • CUNY Graduate Center's Mina Rees Library

Cite Your Sources

Citation generators.

  • Citing Sources
  • Chicago & Turabian Style
  • Additional Style Guides & Resources
  • Citing Social Media & Other Digital Sources This link opens in a new window
  • Mendeley & EndNote
  • Citation Managers Compared
  • Avoiding Plagiarism

Citation generators are programs that can help you craft citations quickly and easily.  They are not as robust as full citation managers like Zotero and RefWorks, but can help make quick work of shorter bibliography needs.  Choose a citation style and enter the bibliographic details of the works consulted (author, title, publication date, etc.) to automatically create citations. 

It is important to note that you must enter data accurately and carefully check the automatically generated citations for errors.  As noted in the Purdue OWL's guide to Using Citation Generators Responsibly (linked below), " relying entirely on citation generators rather than on one’s judgment as a writer can lead to errors."

  • Using Citation Generators Responsibly - Purdue OWL A helpful guide from the Purdue Online Writing Lab describing how citation generator apps work and showing what’s happening when a writer uses one. It also offers a few “best practices” for using citation generators.
  • ZoteroBib ZoteroBib helps you build a bibliography instantly from any computer or device, without creating an account or installing any software. It’s brought to you by the team behind Zotero.
  • BibMe Create MLA, APA, or Chicago style citations with ISBN, author, title. Format web sites, journals, videos, newspapers, and “other.” Save bibliography online then paste into a research paper.
  • Citation Machine Formats citations in APA, MLA, Turabian or Chicago writing style.
  • EasyBib EasyBib includes guides to MLA, APA, Chicago, and Harvard styles. Create a free account to use the MLA citation generator. Purchase a subscription to generate citations in other styles.
  • << Previous: Citation Managers Compared
  • Next: Avoiding Plagiarism >>
  • Last Updated: Mar 26, 2024 10:32 AM
  • URL: https://libguides.gc.cuny.edu/citation

Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay

student in library on laptop

How to Write an Effective Essay

Writing an essay for college admission gives you a chance to use your authentic voice and show your personality. It's an excellent opportunity to personalize your application beyond your academic credentials, and a well-written essay can have a positive influence come decision time.

Want to know how to draft an essay for your college application ? Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing.

Tips for Essay Writing

A typical college application essay, also known as a personal statement, is 400-600 words. Although that may seem short, writing about yourself can be challenging. It's not something you want to rush or put off at the last moment. Think of it as a critical piece of the application process. Follow these tips to write an impactful essay that can work in your favor.

1. Start Early.

Few people write well under pressure. Try to complete your first draft a few weeks before you have to turn it in. Many advisers recommend starting as early as the summer before your senior year in high school. That way, you have ample time to think about the prompt and craft the best personal statement possible.

You don't have to work on your essay every day, but you'll want to give yourself time to revise and edit. You may discover that you want to change your topic or think of a better way to frame it. Either way, the sooner you start, the better.

2. Understand the Prompt and Instructions.

Before you begin the writing process, take time to understand what the college wants from you. The worst thing you can do is skim through the instructions and submit a piece that doesn't even fit the bare minimum requirements or address the essay topic. Look at the prompt, consider the required word count, and note any unique details each school wants.

3. Create a Strong Opener.

Students seeking help for their application essays often have trouble getting things started. It's a challenging writing process. Finding the right words to start can be the hardest part.

Spending more time working on your opener is always a good idea. The opening sentence sets the stage for the rest of your piece. The introductory paragraph is what piques the interest of the reader, and it can immediately set your essay apart from the others.

4. Stay on Topic.

One of the most important things to remember is to keep to the essay topic. If you're applying to 10 or more colleges, it's easy to veer off course with so many application essays.

A common mistake many students make is trying to fit previously written essays into the mold of another college's requirements. This seems like a time-saving way to avoid writing new pieces entirely, but it often backfires. The result is usually a final piece that's generic, unfocused, or confusing. Always write a new essay for every application, no matter how long it takes.

5. Think About Your Response.

Don't try to guess what the admissions officials want to read. Your essay will be easier to write─and more exciting to read─if you’re genuinely enthusiastic about your subject. Here’s an example: If all your friends are writing application essays about covid-19, it may be a good idea to avoid that topic, unless during the pandemic you had a vivid, life-changing experience you're burning to share. Whatever topic you choose, avoid canned responses. Be creative.

6. Focus on You.

Essay prompts typically give you plenty of latitude, but panel members expect you to focus on a subject that is personal (although not overly intimate) and particular to you. Admissions counselors say the best essays help them learn something about the candidate that they would never know from reading the rest of the application.

7. Stay True to Your Voice.

Use your usual vocabulary. Avoid fancy language you wouldn't use in real life. Imagine yourself reading this essay aloud to a classroom full of people who have never met you. Keep a confident tone. Be wary of words and phrases that undercut that tone.

8. Be Specific and Factual.

Capitalize on real-life experiences. Your essay may give you the time and space to explain why a particular achievement meant so much to you. But resist the urge to exaggerate and embellish. Admissions counselors read thousands of essays each year. They can easily spot a fake.

9. Edit and Proofread.

When you finish the final draft, run it through the spell checker on your computer. Then don’t read your essay for a few days. You'll be more apt to spot typos and awkward grammar when you reread it. After that, ask a teacher, parent, or college student (preferably an English or communications major) to give it a quick read. While you're at it, double-check your word count.

Writing essays for college admission can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. A well-crafted essay could be the deciding factor─in your favor. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll have no problem creating memorable pieces for every application.

What is the format of a college application essay?

Generally, essays for college admission follow a simple format that includes an opening paragraph, a lengthier body section, and a closing paragraph. You don't need to include a title, which will only take up extra space. Keep in mind that the exact format can vary from one college application to the next. Read the instructions and prompt for more guidance.

Most online applications will include a text box for your essay. If you're attaching it as a document, however, be sure to use a standard, 12-point font and use 1.5-spaced or double-spaced lines, unless the application specifies different font and spacing.

How do you start an essay?

The goal here is to use an attention grabber. Think of it as a way to reel the reader in and interest an admissions officer in what you have to say. There's no trick on how to start a college application essay. The best way you can approach this task is to flex your creative muscles and think outside the box.

You can start with openers such as relevant quotes, exciting anecdotes, or questions. Either way, the first sentence should be unique and intrigue the reader.

What should an essay include?

Every application essay you write should include details about yourself and past experiences. It's another opportunity to make yourself look like a fantastic applicant. Leverage your experiences. Tell a riveting story that fulfills the prompt.

What shouldn’t be included in an essay?

When writing a college application essay, it's usually best to avoid overly personal details and controversial topics. Although these topics might make for an intriguing essay, they can be tricky to express well. If you’re unsure if a topic is appropriate for your essay, check with your school counselor. An essay for college admission shouldn't include a list of achievements or academic accolades either. Your essay isn’t meant to be a rehashing of information the admissions panel can find elsewhere in your application.

How can you make your essay personal and interesting?

The best way to make your essay interesting is to write about something genuinely important to you. That could be an experience that changed your life or a valuable lesson that had an enormous impact on you. Whatever the case, speak from the heart, and be honest.

Is it OK to discuss mental health in an essay?

Mental health struggles can create challenges you must overcome during your education and could be an opportunity for you to show how you’ve handled challenges and overcome obstacles. If you’re considering writing your essay for college admission on this topic, consider talking to your school counselor or with an English teacher on how to frame the essay.

Related Articles

Economic Research - Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis

Economic Synopses

What to know about the rise of services.

The reallocation of economic activity away from manufacturing toward the services sector is a notable feature of advanced economies over the past 40 years. This essay presents four facts about the rise of services in the U.S. and other advanced economies.

1. Value Added: The services sector produces 79% of U.S. output 

The services share in value added has grown markedly in the U.S., increasing from 52% in 1950, to 62% in 1980, to 79% in 2020. 1 This growth stems from both an increase in the quantity of services produced and the relative price of services. Administrative services; professional services; education; health care; finance and insurance; and arts, entertainment, and recreation industries grew the most since 1980. These six industries now account for more than 33% of the aggregate value added.

cite a essay

Figure 1 shows that the services sector accounts for more than two-thirds of economic activity in most advanced economies, with the sector's share rising close to 9 percentage points on average over the past 25 years. Professional and administrative services, health care, real estate, and the information industries have driven this increase.

  

2. Employment and Hours Worked: The services sector accounts for 85% of U.S. employment 

In 1980, the services sector employed two workers for every worker in non-service industries in the U.S. It is now 5.5 workers for every non-service worker (i.e., 85% of employment). Skill-intensive industries, such as professional services, health care, and education, grew considerably over the past 40 years and now account for 26% of employment in the U.S. Less-skill-intensive service industries also contributed to this shift in employment: Administrative services, accommodation and food services, and transportation and warehousing now represent 24% of employment in the U.S. 

Despite having more people working in services, the average number of hours worked per employed person has declined. Partly due to more part-time jobs in services, the average number of hours worked fell from 1,932 hours in 1980 to 1,587 in 2020. Conversely, the average number of hours worked in non-service industries has been stable at 2,400 hours per year. 

cite a essay

Figure 2 shows that other advanced economies experienced similar growth in services employment: This sector now employs more than two-thirds of workers in industrialized countries. Employment grew the most in professional and administrative services, health care, real estate, and information. People employed in services work fewer hours than non-service workers, with the average for service workers ranging from 1,345 hours per year in Germany to 1,989 hours in Portugal.

3. Firms and Establishments: The services sector accounts for 83% of U.S. firms 

Although the number of firms and establishments increased at a slower pace than output and employment in services over the past 40 years, the sector currently comprises 83% of firms and 86% of establishments in the U.S.: There were about four service firms for each non-service firm in 1980 and about five in 2020. 2 A rapid expansion of the number of firms in professional services, administrative services, health care, and accommodation and food services drove this increase. These four industries now account for 39% of firms in the U.S. 

Most European countries have followed similar trends, with more than two-thirds of firms operating in the services sector. Countries such as Greece, Luxembourg, Netherlands, and Portugal have more than five service firms per non-­service firm, while countries such as Germany, Ireland, and Switzerland had fewer than 3.5 service firms. The latter group of countries have many firms in construction and manufacturing.

4. Consumption: The services sector accounts for 78% of U.S. household spending 

Household spending represented 78% of personal consumption expenditures in the U.S. in 2020—an 8-percentage-­point increase relative to 1980. The increase in spending on services is less spectacular than that in value added over the past 40 years because the measures discussed above relate to production and do not necessarily align with the classification of what final consumers buy. 3  

Why Did the Services Sector Grow?

Stronger productivity growth in non-service industries (e.g., manufacturing) reduced the cost, and therefore the price, of manufactured goods compared with services. Holding other things constant, this stronger productivity growth in non-service industries tends to increase the share of services in the economy. Another explanation relates to household preferences. As people become richer, they tend to spend less on basic goods and demand more services.

1 In national accounts, value added refers to the value of the aggregate output of goods and services (i.e., gross output) minus the aggregate expenses with intermediate inputs.

2 Establishments refer to a single, fixed physical location where economic activity occurs. A firm can be an establishment or a combination of establishments.

3 Take a toy as an example. In terms of final consumption, a toy is a good and hence will not be measured as a service output. However, in terms of value added, the toy would be broken down into several components—one related to the production of the toy (i.e., manufacturing), another related to the transportation and storage of toys (a service), and yet another related to its sale in a retail store (a service).

© 2024, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect official positions of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis or the Federal Reserve System.

Cite this article

Twitter logo

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Stay current with brief essays, scholarly articles, data news, and other information about the economy from the Research Division of the St. Louis Fed.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE RESEARCH DIVISION NEWSLETTER

Research division.

  • Legal and Privacy

cite a essay

One Federal Reserve Bank Plaza St. Louis, MO 63102

Information for Visitors

twitter x

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

What Would Make the Subway Feel Safer? Experts Have 5 Suggestions.

A recent shooting on a train in Brooklyn has put some New Yorkers on edge. Several measures could help ease their concerns, experts say.

A tight frame of passengers holding onto the railing of the subway.

A string of frightening attacks in the subway amid a broader increase in crime in the system so far this year has put some New Yorkers on edge.

When Gov. Kathy Hochul deployed National Guard members and State Police troopers to the transit system this month, she said her goal was twofold: to fight crime and to make riders feel safe. The subway is crucial to New York’s vitality, and passengers’ needs are a top priority for her and other public officials as they navigate the city’s post-pandemic recovery.

But just days after the reinforcements arrived, a shooting on an A train in Brooklyn underscored how fragile any sense of security can be and undermined officials’ message, supported by data, that the subway is safe. It also stirred a dread familiar to many riders , who have witnessed some of the city’s biggest problems — untreated mental health issues, illegal guns, homelessness — being amplified in the confined spaces of platforms and trains.

Leaders in the fields of transportation, criminal justice and social services often disagree about the best way to make the subway safer, with some calling for more police and others suggesting a softer approach.

Here are five ideas that experts say could help ease riders fears about the subway:

Strengthen gun checks

Some experts believe more must be done to keep guns out of the system.

Rigorous and widespread bag checks, which the police already conduct at random, are an effective way to achieve that goal, said Anastasia Loukaitou-Sideris, the interim dean at U.C.L.A.’s Luskin School of Public Affairs.

Professor Loukaitou-Sideris, who specializes in transit safety, said the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the state agency that operates the subway, could consider searching riders at every station using metal detectors and X-ray machines. She said that although doing so might be difficult and expensive, the Shanghai Metro does it efficiently.

The authority, she suggested, could also experiment with using sensors to detect guns. Transportation officials around the world have been studying the idea of adding such sensors to fare-collection devices and ticketing machines for some time, as she and several coauthors wrote in a chapter of the 2015 book “Securing Transportation Systems .”

“You have to eliminate the opportunity to bring the gun on the train,” she said.

Professor Loukaitou-Sideris cautioned that any extra screening should affect service as little as possible. And civil libertarians have warned that any more surveillance risks compromising riders’ privacy.

Provide more help for those who need it

Fears about subway safety arise in part from high-profile attacks in which mentally ill homeless people have seemingly targeted riders at random. There is, however, no data to suggest that people with mental illness are more likely to commit violence than those without it. Mentally ill people are actually more likely to be the victim of a violent crime.

A visible presence of social and transit workers can help deter crime and de-escalate tense situations, advocates said.

Some mass transit supporters have urged the M.T.A. to create a more robust internal division for helping homeless people. These advocates cite the agency that operates Philadelphia’s transit system and runs a program that employs about 50 social service outreach specialists. In Philadelphia, homeless people can be directed to the Hub of Hope, a drop-in center within the transit system, that provides showers, medical care and food.

Although the M.T.A. already sends a small number of outreach teams into the subway to move homeless people out of the system, some activists said something like the Hub of Hope could focus on providing a safe, comfortable place for getting help within the system.

“Mental health issues, poverty, trauma — these are all things that we know are drivers of violence,” said Jamila Hodge, the executive director of Equal Justice USA, a national anti-violence organization based in Brooklyn.

Alter the physical environment

Bright lights, see-through staircases and other structural features can make the system feel less claustrophobic.

The M.T.A. has already done some work in this area, announcing last month that it would convert all 150,000 fluorescent light fixtures in the system to LED lighting by the middle of 2026. The project is meant to make riders feel safer and more comfortable. The new fixtures will also help capture better video using the subway’s roughly 15,000 security cameras.

“It’s the safety-in-numbers idea,” said Chris Van Eyken, the director of research and policy at TransitCenter, a research and advocacy group. “There’s also a bit of a deterrent.”

Transportation officials are also experimenting with other structural changes to improve safety and make the system feel more orderly, testing new fare gates to stop turnstile jumpers and metal platform barriers to keep riders from falling onto the tracks.

Help riders be prepared

When something frightening happens in the subway, riders often do not know what to do.

Transit officials in the San Francisco region have sought to help female riders on the Bay Area Rapid Transit, or BART, system avoid harassment with a campaign that teaches bystanders how to assist someone being victimized. Transportation safety leaders say the M.T.A. could adopt a similar program. (The Bay Area campaign focuses on women and girls because they are more likely to be concerned for their safety on public transit than male passengers.)

Advertisements circulated within the BART system encourage people to assess a situation by observing, for instance, whether a harasser has a weapon. Witnesses are urged to approach a victim when they feel it is safe to do so or to otherwise call for help.

The campaign has had promising results. A survey conducted from October through December showed that 7 percent of BART riders had recently experienced gender-based sexual harassment, compared with 10 percent during the same period in 2020, before the campaign began.

But some transit activists warned against encouraging anything that might resemble vigilantism, which they say has led to deadly consequences in the subway .

Danny Pearlstein, a spokesman for the Riders Alliance, an advocacy group in New York, said the rise of social media and high-definition cellphone videos had magnified the perceived scale of violence in the subway. He added that the issue of subway safety had become intertwined with politicized disputes about crime in a way that risked creating an inaccurate portrayal of the system’s overall safety.

Increase fare enforcement

Dorothy Schulz, a retired captain with the Metro-North Police Department and emeritus professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, said law enforcement officers should stand at gates and stop people who did not pay the fare.

She echoed complaints by Mayor Eric Adams about “a sense of disorderly behavior,” which some law enforcement officials believe can be a precursor to violent crime.

The M.T.A. has struggled for years to rein in fare evasion, and it has begun considering options other than relying on the police . Left-leaning politicians and advocates for poor New Yorkers have denounced aggressive policing efforts, which they say unfairly target the city’s most vulnerable people and are not effective.

Transit leaders have responded by trying other tactics, including experimenting with increasing fare subsidies, media campaigns urging riders to pay, and new fare gates that are harder to circumvent.

“If you stop people at the fare gates — particularly those who are obviously not intending to pay — you’ll pick up a lot of weapons and a lot of people with warrants,” Ms. Schulz said. “That’s the solution.”

Ana Ley is a Times reporter covering New York City’s mass transit system and the millions of passengers who use it. More about Ana Ley

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

MLA Works Cited Page: Books

OWL logo

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

MLA (Modern Language Association) style is most commonly used to write papers and cite sources within the liberal arts and humanities. This resource, updated to reflect the MLA Handbook (9 th ed.), offers examples for the general format of MLA research papers, in-text citations, endnotes/footnotes, and the Works Cited page.

When you are gathering book sources, be sure to make note of the following bibliographic items: the author name(s), other contributors such as translators or editors, the book’s title, editions of the book, the publication date, the publisher, and the pagination.

The 8 th  edition of the MLA handbook highlights principles over prescriptive practices. Essentially, a writer will need to take note of primary elements in every source, such as author, title, etc. and then assort them in a general format. Thus, by using this methodology, a writer will be able to cite any source regardless of whether it’s included in this list.

Please note these changes in the new edition:

  • Commas are used instead of periods between Publisher, Publication Date, and Pagination.
  • Medium is no longer necessary.
  • Containers are now a part of the MLA process. Commas should be used after container titles.
  • DOIs should be used instead of URLS when available.
  • Use the term “Accessed” instead of listing the date or the abbreviation, “n.d."

Below is the general format for any citation:

Author. Title. Title of container (do not list container for standalone books, e.g. novels), Other contributors (translators or editors), Version (edition), Number (vol. and/or no.), Publisher, Publication Date, Location (pages, paragraphs URL or DOI). 2 nd  container’s title, Other contributors, Version, Number, Publisher, Publication date, Location, Date of Access (if applicable).

Basic Book Format

The author’s name or a book with a single author's name appears in last name, first name format. The basic form for a book citation is:

Last Name, First Name. Title of Book . City of Publication, Publisher, Publication Date.

* Note: the City of Publication should only be used if the book was published before 1900, if the publisher has offices in more than one country, or if the publisher is unknown in North America.

Book with One Author

Gleick, James. Chaos: Making a New Science . Penguin, 1987.

Henley, Patricia. The Hummingbird House . MacMurray, 1999.

Book with More Than One Author

When a book has two authors, order the authors in the same way they are presented in the book. Start by listing the first name that appears on the book in last name, first name format; subsequent author names appear in normal order (first name last name format).

Gillespie, Paula, and Neal Lerner. The Allyn and Bacon Guide to Peer Tutoring . Allyn and Bacon, 2000.

If there are three or more authors, list only the first author followed by the phrase et al. (Latin for "and others") in place of the subsequent authors' names. (Note that there is a period after “al” in “et al.” Also note that there is never a period after the “et” in “et al.”).

Wysocki, Anne Frances, et al. Writing New Media: Theory and Applications for Expanding the Teaching of Composition . Utah State UP, 2004.

Two or More Books by the Same Author

List works alphabetically by title. (Remember to ignore articles like A, An, and The.) Provide the author’s name in last name, first name format for the first entry only. For each subsequent entry by the same author, use three hyphens and a period.

Palmer, William J. Dickens and New Historicism . St. Martin's, 1997.

---. The Films of the Eighties: A Social History . Southern Illinois UP, 1993.

Book by a Corporate Author or Organization

A corporate author may include a commission, a committee, a government agency, or a group that does not identify individual members on the title page.

List the names of corporate authors in the place where an author’s name typically appears at the beginning of the entry.

American Allergy Association. Allergies in Children . Random House, 1998.

When the author and publisher are the same, skip the author, and list the title first. Then, list the corporate author only as the publisher.

Fair Housing—Fair Lending. Aspen Law & Business, 1985.

Book with No Author

List by title of the book. Incorporate these entries alphabetically just as you would with works that include an author name. For example, the following entry might appear between entries of works written by Dean, Shaun and Forsythe, Jonathan.

Encyclopedia of Indiana . Somerset, 1993.

Remember that for an in-text (parenthetical) citation of a book with no author, you should provide the name of the work in the signal phrase and the page number in parentheses. You may also use a shortened version of the title of the book accompanied by the page number. For more information see the In-text Citations for Print Sources with No Known Author section of In-text Citations: The Basics .

A Translated Book

If you want to emphasize the work rather than the translator, cite as you would any other book. Add “translated by” and follow with the name(s) of the translator(s).

Foucault, Michel. Madness and Civilization: A History of Insanity in the Age of Reason . Translated by Richard Howard, Vintage-Random House, 1988.

If you want to focus on the translation, list the translator as the author. In place of the author’s name, the translator’s name appears. His or her name is followed by the label, “translator.” If the author of the book does not appear in the title of the book, include the name, with a “By” after the title of the book and before the publisher. Note that this type of citation is less common and should only be used for papers or writing in which translation plays a central role.

Howard, Richard, translator. Madness and Civilization: A History of Insanity in the Age of Reason . By Michel Foucault, Vintage-Random House, 1988.

Republished Book

Books may be republished due to popularity without becoming a new edition. New editions are typically revisions of the original work. For books that originally appeared at an earlier date and that have been republished at a later one, insert the original publication date before the publication information.

For books that are new editions (i.e. different from the first or other editions of the book), see An Edition of a Book below.

Butler, Judith. Gender Trouble . 1990. Routledge, 1999.

Erdrich, Louise. Love Medicine . 1984. Perennial-Harper, 1993.

An Edition of a Book

There are two types of editions in book publishing: a book that has been published more than once in different editions and a book that is prepared by someone other than the author (typically an editor).

A Subsequent Edition

Cite the book as you normally would, but add the number of the edition after the title.

Crowley, Sharon, and Debra Hawhee. Ancient Rhetorics for Contemporary Students . 3rd ed., Pearson, 2004.

A Work Prepared by an Editor

Cite the book as you normally would, but add the editor after the title with the label "edited by."

Bronte, Charlotte. Jane Eyre,  edited by Margaret Smith, Oxford UP, 1998.

Note that the format for citing sources with important contributors with editor-like roles follows the same basic template:

...adapted by John Doe...

Finally, in the event that the source features a contributor that cannot be described with a past-tense verb and the word "by" (e.g., "edited by"), you may instead use a noun followed by a comma, like so:

...guest editor, Jane Smith...

Anthology or Collection (e.g. Collection of Essays)

To cite the entire anthology or collection, list by editor(s) followed by a comma and "editor" or, for multiple editors, "editors." This sort of entry is somewhat rare. If you are citing a particular piece within an anthology or collection (more common), see A Work in an Anthology, Reference, or Collection below.

Hill, Charles A., and Marguerite Helmers, editors. Defining Visual Rhetorics . Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, 2004.

Peterson, Nancy J., editor. Toni Morrison: Critical and Theoretical Approaches . Johns Hopkins UP, 1997.

A Work in an Anthology, Reference, or Collection

Works may include an essay in an edited collection or anthology, or a chapter of a book. The basic form is for this sort of citation is as follows:

Last name, First name. "Title of Essay." Title of Collection , edited by Editor's Name(s), Publisher, Year, Page range of entry.

Some examples:

Harris, Muriel. "Talk to Me: Engaging Reluctant Writers." A Tutor's Guide: Helping Writers One to One , edited by Ben Rafoth, Heinemann, 2000, pp. 24-34.

Swanson, Gunnar. "Graphic Design Education as a Liberal Art: Design and Knowledge in the University and The 'Real World.'" The Education of a Graphic Designer , edited by Steven Heller, Allworth Press, 1998, pp. 13-24.

Note on Cross-referencing Several Items from One Anthology: If you cite more than one essay from the same edited collection, MLA indicates you may cross-reference within your works cited list in order to avoid writing out the publishing information for each separate essay. You should consider this option if you have several references from a single text. To do so, include a separate entry for the entire collection listed by the editor's name as below:

Rose, Shirley K, and Irwin Weiser, editors. The Writing Program Administrator as Researcher . Heinemann, 1999.

Then, for each individual essay from the collection, list the author's name in last name, first name format, the title of the essay, the editor's last name, and the page range:

L'Eplattenier, Barbara. "Finding Ourselves in the Past: An Argument for Historical Work on WPAs." Rose and Weiser, pp. 131-40.

Peeples, Tim. "'Seeing' the WPA With/Through Postmodern Mapping." Rose and Weiser, pp. 153-67.

Please note: When cross-referencing items in the works cited list, alphabetical order should be maintained for the entire list.

Poem or Short Story Examples :

Burns, Robert. "Red, Red Rose." 100 Best-Loved Poems, edited by Philip Smith, Dover, 1995, p. 26.

Kincaid, Jamaica. "Girl." The Vintage Book of Contemporary American Short Stories , edited by Tobias Wolff, Vintage, 1994, pp. 306-07.

If the specific literary work is part of the author's own collection (all of the works have the same author), then there will be no editor to reference:

Whitman, Walt. "I Sing the Body Electric." Selected Poems, Dover, 1991, pp. 12-19.

Carter, Angela. "The Tiger's Bride." Burning Your Boats: The Collected Stories, Penguin, 1995, pp. 154-69.

Article in a Reference Book (e.g. Encyclopedias, Dictionaries)

For entries in encyclopedias, dictionaries, and other reference works, cite the entry name as you would any other work in a collection but do not include the publisher information. Also, if the reference book is organized alphabetically, as most are, do not list the volume or the page number of the article or item.

"Ideology." The American Heritage Dictionary.  3rd ed. 1997. 

A Multivolume Work

When citing only one volume of a multivolume work, include the volume number after the work's title, or after the work's editor or translator.

Quintilian. Institutio Oratoria . Translated by H. E. Butler, vol. 2, Loeb-Harvard UP, 1980.

When citing more than one volume of a multivolume work, cite the total number of volumes in the work. Also, be sure in your in-text citation to provide both the volume number and page number(s) ( see "Citing Multivolume Works" on our in-text citations resource .)

Quintilian. Institutio Oratoria . Translated by H. E. Butler, Loeb-Harvard UP, 1980. 4 vols.

If the volume you are using has its own title, cite the book without referring to the other volumes as if it were an independent publication.

Churchill, Winston S. The Age of Revolution . Dodd, 1957.

An Introduction, Preface, Foreword, or Afterword

When citing an introduction, a preface, a foreword, or an afterword, write the name of the author(s) of the piece you are citing. Then give the name of the part being cited, which should not be italicized or enclosed in quotation marks; in italics, provide the name of the work and the name of the author of the introduction/preface/foreword/afterword. Finish the citation with the details of publication and page range.

Farrell, Thomas B. Introduction. Norms of Rhetorical Culture , by Farrell, Yale UP, 1993, pp. 1-13.

If the writer of the piece is different from the author of the complete work , then write the full name of the principal work's author after the word "By." For example, if you were to cite Hugh Dalziel Duncan’s introduction of Kenneth Burke’s book Permanence and Change, you would write the entry as follows:

Duncan, Hugh Dalziel. Introduction. Permanence and Change: An Anatomy of Purpose, by Kenneth Burke, 1935, 3rd ed., U of California P, 1984, pp. xiii-xliv.

Book Published Before 1900

Original copies of books published before 1900 are usually defined by their place of publication rather than the publisher. Unless you are using a newer edition, cite the city of publication where you would normally cite the publisher.

Thoreau, Henry David. Excursions . Boston, 1863.

Italicize “The Bible” and follow it with the version you are using. Remember that your in-text (parenthetical citation) should include the name of the specific edition of the Bible, followed by an abbreviation of the book, the chapter and verse(s). (See Citing the Bible at In-Text Citations: The Basics .)

The Bible. Authorized King James Version , Oxford UP, 1998.

The Bible. The New Oxford Annotated Version , 3rd ed., Oxford UP, 2001.

The New Jerusalem Bible. Edited by Susan Jones, Doubleday, 1985.

A Government Publication

Cite the author of the publication if the author is identified. Otherwise, start with the name of the national government, followed by the agency (including any subdivisions or agencies) that serves as the organizational author. For congressional documents, be sure to include the number of the Congress and the session when the hearing was held or resolution passed as well as the report number. US government documents are typically published by the Government Printing Office.

United States, Congress, Senate, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Hearing on the Geopolitics of Oil . Government Printing Office, 2007. 110th Congress, 1st session, Senate Report 111-8.

United States, Government Accountability Office. Climate Change: EPA and DOE Should Do More to Encourage Progress Under Two Voluntary Programs . Government Printing Office, 2006.

Cite the title and publication information for the pamphlet just as you would a book without an author. Pamphlets and promotional materials commonly feature corporate authors (commissions, committees, or other groups that does not provide individual group member names). If the pamphlet you are citing has no author, cite as directed below. If your pamphlet has an author or a corporate author, put the name of the author (last name, first name format) or corporate author in the place where the author name typically appears at the beginning of the entry. (See also Books by a Corporate Author or Organization above.)

Women's Health: Problems of the Digestive System . American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2006.

Your Rights Under California Welfare Programs . California Department of Social Services, 2007.

Dissertations and Master's Theses

Dissertations and master's theses may be used as sources whether published or not. Unlike previous editions, MLA 8 specifies no difference in style for published/unpublished works.

The main elements of a dissertation citation are the same as those for a book: author name(s), title (italicized) , and publication date. Conclude with an indication of the document type (e.g., "PhD dissertation"). The degree-granting institution may be included before the document type (though this is not required). If the dissertation was accessed through an online repository, include it as the second container after all the other elements.

Bishop, Karen Lynn. Documenting Institutional Identity: Strategic Writing in the IUPUI Comprehensive Campaign . 2002. Purdue University, PhD dissertation.

Bile, Jeffrey. Ecology, Feminism, and a Revised Critical Rhetoric: Toward a Dialectical Partnership . 2005. Ohio University, PhD dissertation.

Mitchell, Mark. The Impact of Product Quality Reducing Events on the Value of Brand-Name Capital: Evidence from Airline Crashes and the 1982 Tylenol Poisonings.  1987. PhD dissertation.  ProQuest Dissertations and Theses.

List the names of corporate authors in the place where an author’s name typically appears at the beginning of the entry if the author and publisher are not the same.

Fair Housing—Fair Lending. Aspen Law & Business, 1985.

cite a essay

6 Best Essay Writing Services: Review Of Most Legit Essay Writing Sites In 2024

E ssay writing can be intimidating for students across all levels of education, from high school to college. Often, they grapple with initiating or organizing their thoughts. Additionally, tight deadlines leave little room for thorough research and gathering credible facts. Without adequate assistance, students may submit poorly written papers.

Struggling students, especially those with declining academic performance, often face a crisis of confidence. Crafting a high-quality essay requires extensive research on the topic and strict adherence to guidelines. Depending on one’s proficiency, this process could span weeks or months. In these moments of need, essay writing services emerge as beacons of hope, offering a lifeline to students seeking respite from the academic whirlwind.

In this article, we delve into the various types of services, highlighting their benefits and risks.  So, buckle up and embark on this journey of discovery as we unravel the mysteries of essay writing services and navigate the academic maze together.   

Top 6 Websites For Online Writing Services

Through careful research and assessment, these are the best essay writing websites that meet our standards.

  • ProwWritngCrew – Best College Essay Writing Service - 5/5 ✅
  • EssayMasterz – Cheap Essay Writing Service - 4.86/5✅
  • EssayScribez – Professional University Essay Writing Service - 4.85/5✅
  • SkilledEssayWriter – Best Paper Writing Site for Students - 4.83/5✅
  • EssayLegends – Fastest Essay Writing Service - 4.82/5✅
  • QualityEssayWriter – The Most Affordable Essay Writing Service - 4.0/5✅

Each online writing service offers unique strengths and considerations. ProwWritingCrew stands out for its high-quality college essays, albeit at a higher price point. EssayMasterz prioritizes affordability without compromising quality, although ensuring consistency is crucial.

EssayScribez specializes in professional university-level essays with mid-range pricing, suitable for polished work. SkilledEssayWriter caters to student needs with a user-friendly interface, though its specialization may limit versatility. EssayLegends promise quick turnaround times, yet thoroughness may be sacrificed for speed. 

QualityEssayWriter provides budget-friendly options covering a wide range of topics, but quality assurance is essential. Consider your priorities, whether it's quality, affordability, or speed before making your choice. Here is a detailed analysis of these websites with prices, pros and cons.

1. ProWritingCrew.com

ProWritingCrew.com stands out as one of the top contenders in the realm of essay writing services. With a user-friendly interface and a team of experienced writers, this platform offers a wide range of services at competitive prices.

Additionally, ProWritingCrew offers clients a streamlined ordering process and direct communication with their assigned writers. This ensures that specific requirements are well-understood and met accurately. 

The platform takes pride in its punctual delivery, even for urgent orders. Whether you need help with essays, research papers, or any academic assignment, ProWritingCrew is committed to providing exceptional service customized to your needs.

Prices 

The company offers affordable prices for their services. To have your papers written, the cost begins at $32 per page high school level with a minimum of 4 hours of deadline. Pricing varies based on the assignment type and urgency. 

Additionally, they provide discounts through promo codes. For example, spending over $500 on the platform earns you a 5% discount. Rest assured, all payments are processed securely through reputable gateways, ensuring the safety of your personal information. 

The platform provides excellent customer service, with responsive support agents available round-the-clock to address queries and concerns. Here is the list of pros of this service.

  • Original Writing – complete all papers from scratch.
  • Money-back Guarantee – if your essay has any genuine issues.
  • Timely Delivery – 97% of assignments are completed on time.
  • Plagiarism Check.
  • 500+ Expert Writers.

The website stands out as one of the best services that write papers for you. However, some users have reported occasional inconsistencies in quality and pricing discrepancies.

  • Revision Policy – Some clients perceive the revision process as restrictive or cumbersome.
  • Subject Availability – The availability of writers for specific niche subjects or specialized topics may be limited. 

2. EssayMasterz.com

EssayMasterz.com prides itself on delivering high-quality papers tailored to each client's requirements. With a diverse pool of writers specializing in various subjects, this platform ensures personalized attention to every order.  

From academic essays to research papers, EssayMasterz collaborates closely with clients to create meticulously crafted content that meets the highest standards. 

The pricing varies based on the type of paper. For instance, research papers begin at approximately $12 per page. While coursework writing services start at around $32 per page. If you require an essay writer, their services are available starting at $ 6 per page at the school level.

The website also offers you a 20% discount for your first order. It is a huge relief for someone who is trying paper writing services for the first time,

These are the pros of EssayMasterz.

  • Impeccable grammar.
  • Adherence to deadlines.
  • Unlimited revisions after two weeks of completing the order.
  • Available 24\7.
  • Higher Pricing – some users find the pricing slightly higher compared to other services.
  • Limited Discount Offers – offers fewer discount opportunities for loyal customers.

However, the best thing about them is they are continuously seeking customer reviews and improving their services.

3. EssayScribez.com

EssayScribez.com caters to students seeking reliable essay writing solutions with a focus on quality and professionalism. The platform offers a seamless ordering process and guarantees original, well-researched content.

Moreover, EssayScribez.com guarantees original, well-researched content that meets academic standards and helps students achieve their educational goals. Whether you’re facing tight deadlines or need assistance with complex topics, EssayScribez.com is your go-to destination for high-quality writing services.

EssayScribez provides a pricing system that caters to various needs. Their rates are influenced by factors such as urgency, academic level, and word count, ensuring affordability for all. Prices begin at $12 per page for college-level writing with a 14-day delivery. 

For more advanced levels (Master’s or Ph.D.), the cost ranges from $14 to $60 per page. If you require expedited service, you can receive your work within 24 hours for an additional fee.

EsasyScribez has gained a reputation within years of its launch. Their key to success is staying loyal to their customers by not compromising on quality.

  • Transparent Pricing.
  • Comprehensive research.
  • Accept PayPal payments.
  • 300+ Active writers.
  • PhD level academic proficiency.

EssayScribez is a newly launched service despite the short period it has gained a lot of positive reviews. With a burst of positive reviews, there are a few neutral and negative reviews also present. 

  • Interface Usability – Some users have recommended enhancements to the website’s interface to improve usability and navigation.
  • Pricing Discrepancies – Although the pricing is competitive, there have been occasional instances where users noticed discrepancies in the final billing.

4. SkilledEssayWriter.com

SkilledEssayWriter is renowned for its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. With a team of seasoned writers, this platform delivers top-notch essays tailored to each student's academic level and requirements. 

They deliver customized essays that align with individual academic levels and specific requirements. The platform prioritizes customer satisfaction. Whether it’s prompt responses, revisions, or addressing queries, SkilledEssayWriter.com ensures a seamless experience.

SkilledEssayWriter takes into account students’ budget constraints. Their pricing structure is flexible, adapting to factors like urgency, academic level, and word count, ensuring affordability. For instance:

  • An undergraduate-level essay costs $16 with a 14-day delivery.
  • A Master level essay is priced at $60.
  • For a PhD level essay, the cost is $80. If you require expedited service, the price will adjust based on your specified deadline.
  • High-Quality Complex Papers – delivers excellent quality papers, ensuring attention to formatting, structure, depth, and uniqueness.
  • Customizable Requests – Your requirements will be followed meticulously.
  • Expertise Across Disciplines.
  • Interactive Communication.
  • Handling Challenging Topics – Writers adeptly manage challenging topics and meet specific requirements.
  • Urgent delivery for complex papers can take a while.
  • Some errors are found in the final draft.

5. EssayLegend.com

EssayLegend.com emerges as a reliable option for students seeking premium-quality essays at competitive prices. The platform boasts a team of skilled writers capable of tackling diverse topics with precision and expertise. 

From academic essays to research papers, their writers bring depth and insight to each piece. The platform maintains rigorous quality standards. Essays undergo thorough checks to ensure originality, coherence, and adherence to guidelines.

EssayLegend offers a flexible pricing structure, catering to students with diverse budgets. Their rates range from a minimum of $12 per page (for 550 words) with a 4-hour deadline to a maximum of $32 per page. 

Clients can conveniently estimate the cost of their order using the website’s pricing calculator, which provides a detailed breakdown of associated fees. Rest assured, EssayLegend delivers fair and affordable pricing while maintaining high-quality service.

  • The platform provides informative writer profiles, enabling clients to choose the right person for the job. With various filters, you can find a writer who aligns with your requirements.
  • Discounts – As your order contains more pages, the discount increases, allowing you to save up to 40%. 
  • Urgent delivery – you can place an order for a minimum of 4 hours deadline.
  • Plagiarism Reports – clients can request a free Turnitin plagiarism report for any order. This commitment to originality is commendable.
  • Some users have reported occasional discrepancies in content quality and adherence to instructions.
  • You cannot call the support team.

6. QualityEssayWriter.com

QualityEssayWriter.com is synonymous with professionalism, reliability, and excellence in essay writing services. With a focus on customer satisfaction, this platform offers a plethora of benefits, including personalized assistance, round-the-clock support, and free revisions. 

Whether it’s the middle of the night or the crack of dawn, QualityEssayWriter.com is there for its clients. The 24/7 customer support team promptly addresses queries, concerns, and urgent requests, providing peace of mind to students navigating tight deadlines.

QualityEssayWriter offers competitive pricing for academic papers. Starting at $12 per page, the cost depends on your academic level, field of study, and project submission deadline. Additionally, their refund policy provides reassurance.

Upon registering with your email address and placing your first order, you’ll receive a 9% discount. However, one challenge faced by the company is sourcing enough native American and British speakers for their services.

  • Swift Delivery – Need an urgent essay? QualityEssayWriter has you covered. Their rapid delivery option can have your essay ready in as little as three hours, without compromising quality.
  • User-Friendly Website – The intuitive website design ensures a seamless experience, and the order form presents clear and concise questions to guide you through the process.
  • Extra Features, Beyond writing, QualityEssayWriter provides essential features at no extra cost. These include formatting, an outline, a professional-looking title page, and even a plagiarism report.
  • Expensive for tight deadlines.
  • Occasionally, there might be a short delay in receiving a response from the writer as they could be occupied with other tasks.

Conclusion of Best Essay Writing Service:

In conclusion, as students explore their academic journey, they encounter a wide range of choices for obtaining essay writing help. From exploring the best paper writing services to seeking out top essay writers, this journey has been both enlightening and empowering. Quality, affordability, and reliability are key considerations as students confidently choose from the best essay writers online and top essay writing service providers. 

Without a doubt, leveraging platforms such as ProWritingCrew to QualityEssayWriter for essay orders provides multiple benefits. These services act as a vital support system for students as they tackle the challenging requirements of academic success. 

In this dynamic landscape, the pursuit of excellence remains crucial. As students navigate the academic maze, legitimate paper writing services and reputable essay writing providers offer valuable guidance and support.

However, with a plethora of options available, choosing the right essay writing service can be akin to navigating a maze. Each platform promises impeccable writing, timely delivery, and unmatched quality, leaving students perplexed and overwhelmed by the abundance of choices. In this competitive landscape, it becomes imperative to discern between the myriad offerings and select the service that best aligns with one’s academic needs and preferences.

Throughout our investigation, we’ve encountered a diverse range of essay-writing websites, each with its unique strengths and considerations. Whether you’re searching for the best online essay writing service or evaluating the top essay writers, students now know how to make informed decisions based on their specific requirements.

Essay writing can be intimidating for students across all levels of education, from high school to college.

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

  • Knowledge Base
  • Citing sources
  • How to Cite a Website | MLA, APA & Chicago Examples

How to Cite a Website | MLA, APA & Chicago Examples

Published on March 5, 2021 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on January 17, 2024.

To cite a page from a website, you need a short in-text citation and a corresponding reference stating the author’s name, the date of publication, the title of the page, the website name, and the URL.

This information is presented differently in different citation styles. APA , MLA , and Chicago are the most commonly used styles.

Use the interactive example generator below to explore APA and MLA website citations.

Note that the format is slightly different for citing YouTube and other online video platforms, or for citing an image .

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

upload-your-document-ai-proofreader

Table of contents

Citing a website in mla style, citing a website in apa style, citing a website in chicago style, frequently asked questions about citations.

An MLA Works Cited entry for a webpage lists the author’s name , the title of the page (in quotation marks), the name of the site (in italics), the date of publication, and the URL.

The in-text citation usually just lists the author’s name. For a long page, you may specify a (shortened) section heading to locate the specific passage. Don’t use paragraph numbers unless they’re specifically numbered on the page.

The same format is used for blog posts and online articles from newspapers and magazines.

You can also use our free MLA Citation Generator to generate your website citations.

Generate accurate MLA citations with Scribbr

Citing a whole website.

When you cite an entire website rather than a specific page, include the author if one can be identified for the whole site (e.g. for a single-authored blog). Otherwise, just start with the site name.

List the copyright date displayed on the site; if there isn’t one, provide an access date after the URL.

Webpages with no author or date

When no author is listed, cite the organization as author only if it differs from the website name.

If the organization name is also the website name, start the Works Cited entry with the title instead, and use a shortened version of the title in the in-text citation.

When no publication date is listed, leave it out and include an access date at the end instead.

The only proofreading tool specialized in correcting academic writing - try for free!

The academic proofreading tool has been trained on 1000s of academic texts and by native English editors. Making it the most accurate and reliable proofreading tool for students.

cite a essay

Try for free

An APA reference for a webpage lists the author’s last name and initials, the full date of publication, the title of the page (in italics), the website name (in plain text), and the URL.

The in-text citation lists the author’s last name and the year. If it’s a long page, you may include a locator to identify the quote or paraphrase (e.g. a paragraph number and/or section title).

Note that a general reference to an entire website doesn’t require a citation in APA Style; just include the URL in parentheses after you mention the site.

You can also use our free APA Citation Generator to create your webpage citations. Search for a URL to retrieve the details.

Generate accurate APA citations with Scribbr

Blog posts and online articles.

Blog posts follow a slightly different format: the title of the post is not italicized, and the name of the blog is.

The same format is used for online newspaper and magazine articles—but not for articles from news sites like Reuters and BBC News (see the previous example).

When a page has no author specified, list the name of the organization that created it instead (and omit it later if it’s the same as the website name).

When it doesn’t list a date of publication, use “n.d.” in place of the date. You can also include an access date if the page seems likely to change over time.

In Chicago notes and bibliography style, footnotes are used to cite sources. They refer to a bibliography at the end that lists all your sources in full.

A Chicago bibliography entry for a website lists the author’s name, the page title (in quotation marks), the website name, the publication date, and the URL.

Chicago also has an alternative author-date citation style . Examples of website citations in this style can be found here .

For blog posts and online articles from newspapers, the name of the publication is italicized. For a blog post, you should also add the word “blog” in parentheses, unless it’s already part of the blog’s name.

When a web source doesn’t list an author , you can usually begin your bibliography entry and short note with the name of the organization responsible. Don’t repeat it later if it’s also the name of the website. A full note should begin with the title instead.

When no publication or revision date is shown, include an access date instead in your bibliography entry.

The main elements included in website citations across APA , MLA , and Chicago style are the author, the date of publication, the page title, the website name, and the URL. The information is presented differently in each style.

In APA , MLA , and Chicago style citations for sources that don’t list a specific author (e.g. many websites ), you can usually list the organization responsible for the source as the author.

If the organization is the same as the website or publisher, you shouldn’t repeat it twice in your reference:

  • In APA and Chicago, omit the website or publisher name later in the reference.
  • In MLA, omit the author element at the start of the reference, and cite the source title instead.

If there’s no appropriate organization to list as author, you will usually have to begin the citation and reference entry with the title of the source instead.

When you want to cite a specific passage in a source without page numbers (e.g. an e-book or website ), all the main citation styles recommend using an alternate locator in your in-text citation . You might use a heading or chapter number, e.g. (Smith, 2016, ch. 1)

In APA Style , you can count the paragraph numbers in a text to identify a location by paragraph number. MLA and Chicago recommend that you only use paragraph numbers if they’re explicitly marked in the text.

For audiovisual sources (e.g. videos ), all styles recommend using a timestamp to show a specific point in the video when relevant.

Check if your university or course guidelines specify which citation style to use. If the choice is left up to you, consider which style is most commonly used in your field.

  • APA Style is the most popular citation style, widely used in the social and behavioral sciences.
  • MLA style is the second most popular, used mainly in the humanities.
  • Chicago notes and bibliography style is also popular in the humanities, especially history.
  • Chicago author-date style tends to be used in the sciences.

Other more specialized styles exist for certain fields, such as Bluebook and OSCOLA for law.

The most important thing is to choose one style and use it consistently throughout your text.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Caulfield, J. (2024, January 17). How to Cite a Website | MLA, APA & Chicago Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved March 26, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/citing-sources/cite-a-website/

Is this article helpful?

Jack Caulfield

Jack Caulfield

Other students also liked, how to cite an image | photographs, figures, diagrams, how to cite a lecture | apa, mla & chicago examples, how to cite a youtube video | mla, apa & chicago, scribbr apa citation checker.

An innovative new tool that checks your APA citations with AI software. Say goodbye to inaccurate citations!

cite a essay

IMAGES

  1. How to Cite Sources (with Sample Citations)

    cite a essay

  2. How to insert a citation in mla style

    cite a essay

  3. How to Cite an Author in MLA Format: 5 Steps (with Pictures)

    cite a essay

  4. Sample Text Citation Mla

    cite a essay

  5. 021 How To Cite Sources In An Essay Example College Writing Citing

    cite a essay

  6. Tips on Citing a Poem in MLA Style

    cite a essay

VIDEO

  1. How to Cite an Essay in an Edited Collection (A Chapter)

  2. How do I use tables, graphs, pictures, or figures in an APA essay?

  3. How to Cite an Essay in an Edited Volume

  4. How to add reference in research paper manually #addreference #research

  5. How to add citation and reference search papers@nanglupk1459

  6. How do I cite movies, TV shows, blogs, tweets, Instagram, etc in APA format?

COMMENTS

  1. How to Cite an Essay in MLA

    To cite your sources in an essay in MLA style, you need to have basic information including the author's name (s), chapter title, book title, editor (s), publication year, publisher, and page numbers. The templates for in-text citations and a works-cited-list entry for essay sources and some examples are given below: In-text citation template ...

  2. Free Citation Generator

    Citation Generator: Automatically generate accurate references and in-text citations using Scribbr's APA Citation Generator, MLA Citation Generator, Harvard Referencing Generator, and Chicago Citation Generator. Plagiarism Checker: Detect plagiarism in your paper using the most accurate Turnitin-powered plagiarism software available to students.

  3. How to Cite Sources

    To cite a source, you need an in-text citation and a reference entry. Auto-cite in the right format with our free citation generator. FAQ ... At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays, research papers, and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

  4. MLA In-Text Citations: The Basics

    When you cite a work that appears inside a larger source (for instance, an article in a periodical or an essay in a collection), cite the author of the internal source (i.e., the article or essay). For example, to cite Albert Einstein's article "A Brief Outline of the Theory of Relativity," which was published in Nature in 1921, you might write ...

  5. Student's Guide to MLA Style (2021)

    This guide follows the 9th edition (the most recent) of the MLA Handbook, published by the Modern Language Association in 2021. To cite sources in MLA style, you need. In-text citations that give the author's last name and a page number. A list of Works Cited that gives full details of every source. Make sure your paper also adheres to MLA ...

  6. 4 Ways to Cite an Essay

    2. List the title of the essay in quotation marks. After the author's name, type the title of the essay in title case, capitalizing the first word and all nouns, pronouns, adjectives, adverbs, and verbs in the title. Place a period at the end of the title, inside the closing quotation marks. [2] Example: Potter, Harry.

  7. APA Formatting and Style Guide (7th Edition)

    General guidelines for referring to the works of others in your essay Author/Authors How to refer to authors in-text, including single and multiple authors, unknown authors, organizations, etc. Reference List. Resources on writing an APA style reference list, including citation formats

  8. MLA Formatting and Style Guide

    MLA (Modern Language Association) style is most commonly used to write papers and cite sources within the liberal arts and humanities. This resource, updated to reflect the MLA Handbook (9 th ed.), offers examples for the general format of MLA research papers, in-text citations, endnotes/footnotes, and the Works Cited page.

  9. Cite This For Me: Harvard, APA, MLA Reference Generator

    Cite This For Me™ citation guides cover a lot of this additional information, so your paper is more properly prepped and less likely to get points taken off for these details. The guides cover several citation styles, but the most popular are Harvard referencing , APA format , MLA format , and Chicago style .

  10. Citation Machine®: Format & Generate

    Stay up to date! Get research tips and citation information or just enjoy some fun posts from our student blog. Citation Machine® helps students and professionals properly credit the information that they use. Cite sources in APA, MLA, Chicago, Turabian, and Harvard for free.

  11. Free MLA Citation Generator [Updated for 2024]

    Scroll back up to the generator at the top of the page and select the type of source you're citing. Books, journal articles, and webpages are all examples of the types of sources our generator can cite automatically. Then either search for the source, or enter the details manually in the citation form. The generator will produce a formatted MLA ...

  12. EasyBib®: Free Bibliography Generator

    Avoid common grammar mistakes and unintentional plagiarism with our essay checker. Receive personalized feedback to help identify citations that may be missing, and help improve your sentence structure, punctuation, and more to turn in an error-free paper. ... We cite according to the 9th edition of MLA, 7th edition of APA, and 16th edition of ...

  13. Quotations

    when reproducing an exact definition (see Section 6.22 of the Publication Manual ), when an author has said something memorably or succinctly, or. when you want to respond to exact wording (e.g., something someone said). Instructors, programs, editors, and publishers may establish limits on the use of direct quotations.

  14. The Basics of In-Text Citation

    At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays, research papers, and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises). Add a citation whenever you quote, paraphrase, or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

  15. In-Text Citations: The Basics

    Note: This page reflects the latest version of the APA Publication Manual (i.e., APA 7), which released in October 2019. The equivalent resource for the older APA 6 style can be found here. Reference citations in text are covered on pages 261-268 of the Publication Manual. What follows are some general guidelines for referring to the works of others in your essay.

  16. How to Cite an Article in an Essay? (APA and MLA)

    To cite in an essay, using APA style, you will need to include the author's name, the date of publication, and the page number where you found the information. Using a Direct Quote. If compared to MLA, APA style is a bit more complicated and requires the writer to specify more details. Apart from the author's last name and the page number ...

  17. 4 Ways to Cite an Essay

    Spread the loveWhen it comes to essay writing, correctly citing sources is essential. Proper citation allows readers to locate the original work and verify the information presented. Additionally, it protects against plagiarism accusations and helps maintain academic integrity. Here are four ways to cite an essay: 1. MLA (Modern Language Association) Style MLA is a standard citation style for ...

  18. Research Guides: Cite Your Sources: Citation Generators

    Citation generators are programs that can help you craft citations quickly and easily. They are not as robust as full citation managers like Zotero and RefWorks, but can help make quick work of shorter bibliography needs. Choose a citation style and enter the bibliographic details of the works consulted (author, title, publication date, etc.) to automatically create citations.

  19. Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay

    Essay prompts typically give you plenty of latitude, but panel members expect you to focus on a subject that is personal (although not overly intimate) and particular to you. Admissions counselors say the best essays help them learn something about the candidate that they would never know from reading the rest of the application. 7. Stay True ...

  20. Free APA Citation Generator

    Cite a book; Cite a journal article; Cite a YouTube video; APA in-text citations ... Scribbr offers admission essay editing, paper editing, and academic editing. Guides and videos: Explore hundreds of articles, bite-sized videos, time-saving templates, and handy checklists that guide you through the process of research, writing, and citation.

  21. Open Letters: Our New Opinion-Writing Contest

    While it was originally written to support our Student Editorial Contest, the resources can help students make compelling arguments, cite reliable evidence and use rhetorical strategies for their ...

  22. How to Start an Evaluation Essay: Tips & Steps

    An evaluative essay hinges on three core elements: criteria, judgments, and evidence. Accordingly, understanding these components sheds light on the intricate assessment process. Criteria: Criteria for evaluation essay serve as the guiding principles that delineate the ideal standards for the brand, service, or product.

  23. MLA Works Cited: Electronic Sources (Web Publications)

    MLA (Modern Language Association) style is most commonly used to write papers and cite sources within the liberal arts and humanities. This resource, updated to reflect the MLA Handbook (9 th ed.), offers examples for the general format of MLA research papers, in-text citations, endnotes/footnotes, and the Works Cited page.

  24. What To Know About the Rise of Services

    The reallocation of economic activity away from manufacturing toward the services sector is a notable feature of advanced economies over the past 40 years. This essay presents four facts about the rise of services in the U.S. and other advanced economies. 1. Value Added: The services sector produces 79% of U.S. output

  25. What Would Make the Subway Feel Safer? Experts Have 5 Suggestions

    A recent shooting on a train in Brooklyn has put some New Yorkers on edge. Several measures could help ease their concerns, experts say. By Ana Ley A string of frightening attacks in the subway ...

  26. How to Cite a Website in APA Style

    Revised on January 17, 2024. APA website citations usually include the author, the publication date, the title of the page or article, the website name, and the URL. If there is no author, start the citation with the title of the article. If the page is likely to change over time, add a retrieval date. If you are citing an online version of a ...

  27. MLA Works Cited Page: Books

    Works may include an essay in an edited collection or anthology, or a chapter of a book. The basic form is for this sort of citation is as follows: Last name, First name. "Title of Essay." Title of Collection, edited by Editor's Name (s), Publisher, Year, Page range of entry. Some examples: Harris, Muriel.

  28. 6 Best Essay Writing Services: Review Of Most Legit Essay Writing ...

    ProwWritngCrew - Best College Essay Writing Service - 5/5 ; EssayMasterz - Cheap Essay Writing Service - 4.86/5 ; EssayScribez - Professional University Essay Writing Service - 4.85/5 ...

  29. How to Cite a Website

    Citing a website in MLA Style. An MLA Works Cited entry for a webpage lists the author's name, the title of the page (in quotation marks), the name of the site (in italics), the date of publication, and the URL. The in-text citation usually just lists the author's name. For a long page, you may specify a (shortened) section heading to ...