Citing Sources   Tags: citing, how_to_guide  

In 2009, the Modern Language Association (MLA) released the 7th edition of MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. 

In 2010, the American Psychological Association (APA) also released the 6th edition of its Publication Manual. 

Since the changes in both these major style manuals were substantial and relatively recent, some professors may still want you to use the older rules.  Always ask your professor about his/her citation expectations!

Your professor will usually specify the citation style required for your paper or project. Always check with him or her about any specific questions regarding expectations and requirements. Some general guidelines, though:

MLA style - typically used in the Humanities (e.g., English)

APA style - used for Social Sciences (e.g., Psychology, Sociology)

Chicago style - used in History; also, a version of Chicago style, Turabian, is often used in Calvin Religion and Seminary courses

MLA, APA, and Chicago styles are the three most common documentation styles required by Calvin professors. The rules and guidance for these styles are provided the manuals listed below. They can be found in print in the library's Reference Collection and also at the Research Assistance Desk:

• MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing (also: MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers)
• Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association
• The Chicago Manual of Style

Note that a number of online tools and resources may offer citation help, but they are not always correct nor cover every situation. The style manuals are considered the authorities for citation and formatting rules.

You may also want to check the official websites for these styles: MLA, APA, Chicago.

Citation generators are online tools that create your citations for you (you just need to enter the information):

Use KnightCite, Calvin's own citation generator (works with MLA, APA, and Chicago styles).

Or try:

• NoodleTools Express - MLA, APA, Chicago
• EasyBib - APA, Chicago, but only free for MLA
• Microsoft Word citation generator (under the References tab)

Most databases (especially our major vendors:  Gale, ProQuest, and EBSCOhost) now provide a citation link that will automatically generate citations in most major styles. Look for a "Citation" or "Cite This" link in the database record. 

Still have questions?  These websites provide extensive examples and help with documenting sources:

• St. Martin's Handbook, 6th ed. - See "Documenting Sources" for help with MLA, APA, Chicago, and CSE Styles. (A print copy of the St. Martin's Handbook can be found at the Research Assistance Desk.)

• Research and Documentation Online