The Modern Language Association (MLA) released the 9th edition to their style handbook in April of 2021. Fortunately, not much has changed to MLA formatting from the 8th to the 9th edition. The format for both in-text and works cited is the same across the new edition. The majority of the changes are to the handbook itself. In the new handbook, you'll find:
- expanded, in-depth guidance on how to use the MLA template of core elements to create works-cited-list entries that shows what each core element is, where to find it, and how to style it
- clarification that element names are not always literal and can apply to a range of situations (e.g., the Publisher element can refer to the publisher of a book or a sponsoring organization like the theater company that put on a play)
- a new, easy-to-follow explanation of in-text citations
- a new chapter containing recommendations for using inclusive language
- a new appendix with hundreds of sample works-cited-list entries listed by publication format, including books, databases, websites, YouTube videos, interviews, and more
- updated guidelines on avoiding plagiarism
- a new chapter on formatting a research paper
- new, expanded guidelines on spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and more
- a new chapter on using notes in MLA style
For more information, consult our updated MLA Citation Guide, ask-a-librarian, or stop by the library and find one of the several print copies of the new handbook for in-library use.