MLA and APA Help
MLA stands for the Modern Language Association which was founded in 1883. Most academic essays written in MLA format are usually reserved for writers who prepare essays for various humanities disciplines like English and Art.
APA stands for the American Psychological Association which was founded in 1892. Most academic essays written in APA format are reserved for the sciences such as biology, psychology, geography, etc.
Note: The information provided here is meant to guide college students in MLA and APA format as put forth by their respective schools of thought. However, when writing an academic essay, please remember to always follow your instructor's instructions.
MLA
For more comprehensive information on MLA format, please visit the following links:
Information directly from the Modern Language Association.
PURDUE ONLINE WRITING LAB
Information on MLA style gathered by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
STUDENT PAPER EXAMPLE PDF
A PDF example of a student paper written in MLA format with callout bubbles containing
helpful advice.
APA
For more comprehensive information on APA format, please visit the following links:
APA STYLE ASSOCIATION
Information directly from the American Psychological Association.
PURDUE ONLINE WRITING LAB
Information on APA style gathered by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
STUDENT PAPER EXAMPLE
A PDF example of a student paper written in APA format with callout bubbles containing
helpful advice.