APA vs MLA | The Key Differences and Similarities

APA vs MLA: Which Citation Style Should I Use and Why?

There are different citation styles and choosing the appropriate one, be it APA or MLA, is an important decision. When to use APA vs MLA depends on your field, target publication, and research nature.

APA (American Psychological Association) and MLA (Modern Language Association) serve different purposes and are preferred in distinct academic domains. 

• APA is used in the social sciences, education, and business, emphasizing clarity and precision in research communication. It employs an author-date in-text citation system and a structured references page to ensure consistency, it is currently in its 7th edition.
• MLA is primarily used in humanities, literature, and arts, focusing on a reader-friendly format. MLA uses an author-page in-text citation system and a Works Cited page. It allows for more flexibility and acknowledges the fluidity of sources in these fields. The most recent edition is MLA 9th.

Your choice ultimately hinges on your academic discipline and the guidelines of your institution or publication. 

In-Text Citations in APA vs. MLA

In-text citations serve as critical components of both APA and MLA citation styles, facilitating the acknowledgment of sources within the text. Both styles use parenthetical citations. However, they differ in how they structure and present these citations. 

Below is a comparison of how APA and MLA incorporate in-text citations:

APA (American Psychological Association)

In APA format, in-text citations follow an author-date format. The author's last name and the year of publication are placed in parentheses within the text. The page number is included when quoting directly from a source.

• Paraphrased citation in APA: (Smith, 2020)
  
• Direct quote citation in APA: (Johnson, 2018, p. 45)

MLA (Modern Language Association)

MLA format employs an author-page format for in-text citations. Include the author's last name and the page number (if applicable) within the text, typically in parentheses.

• Paraphrased citation in MLA: (Smith)
  
• Direct quote citation in MLA: (Johnson 45)

Comparison of In-Text Citations for Number of Authors 

The key distinction lies in how multiple authors are cited. In APA, when there are three or more authors, the abbreviation "et al." is used after the first author's name. In contrast, MLA lists all authors' last names.

APA Reference List vs. MLA Works Cited List

The bibliography, created at the end of your paper ensures the proper documentation of all sources used. In APA style, this list is referred to as "References," while in MLA, it is termed "Works Cited." 

Below, we dive into the specifics of how each style constructs these lists:

Let’s take a look at the sample reference list and work cited examples: 

APA Reference List Example:

MLA Work Cited Example:

APA vs. MLA Paper Formatting

Both APA and MLA share these general formatting guidelines:

• Margins and Spacing: Maintain 1-inch margins on all sides and use double-spacing throughout the entire document.
  
• Font and Size: Use 12-point Times New Roman or Arial font.
  
• Page Numbers: Place page numbers in the top-right corner, one-half inch from the top edge, within the header.

Key differences between APA and MLA formats involve the title page, running head, and guidelines for block quotes.

Title Page and Header

APA requires a separate title page. This page includes vital information that sets the tone for your academic work. 

In an APA title page, include the title, your name (matching in-text citations), and your institutional affiliation. A running head in the top-left corner (limited to 50 characters) serves as a header, while the page number aligns in the top-right corner.

In MLA, a separate cover page is optional. Instead, key information is integrated into the initial page of your document, creating a distinctive header. 

The header is left-aligned and double-spaced. It should include your full name, your instructor's name, the course title or number, and the submission date. The paper's title is centered on a new line under the header. 

Running Head in APA vs MLA

In APA, a running head is like a short title at the top of each page. It's on the right side and usually has a page number. If you're writing for a journal, it should also have a very short version of your paper's title on the left.

In MLA, the running head is simple. It's just your last name and the page number, both on the right side. This helps keep your pages organized and easy to find.

Block Quote Formatting in APA and MLA 

Block quotes are used for long quotations. They're like standalone text blocks without quotation marks.

In APA, any quote of 40 words or more becomes a block quote. It's indented from the left, with no quotation marks, and the citation comes after.

The results of the study showed a significant improvement in participants' cognitive abilities. The researchers noted that

"the increase in cognitive function was most pronounced in the group that received the higher dosage of the medication"
(Smith & Johnson, 2020, p. 78).

In MLA, block quotes are for quotes longer than four lines of text (for prose) or three lines (for verse). Just like in APA, there are no quotation marks, the quote is indented, and the citation comes after.

The results of the study showed a significant improvement in participants' cognitive abilities. The researchers noted that
the increase in cognitive function was most pronounced in the group that received the higher dosage of the medication
(Smith & Johnson 78).

This formatting helps show that these are longer quotes, and the citation tells where they came from.

Footnotes and Endnotes in APA Vs MLA

In APA style, the use of footnotes and endnotes is uncommon. It places a strong emphasis on in-text citations and a references page. When used, APA suggests content footnotes.

In contrast, MLA utilizes footnotes and endnotes for explanatory or bibliographic notes. Footnotes appear at the bottom of the page, and endnotes are collected at the end of the document before the Works Cited page.

This flexibility allows MLA to provide additional context or cite sources not directly mentioned in the text.

Similarities Between APA and MLA

While APA and MLA styles have distinct features, they also share important similarities. Understanding these commonalities can simplify the process of working with either style.

To Sum it Up, we've discussed the distinct features of APA and MLA styles, from their in-text citation systems to their formatting. Now you should be able to distinguish between APA and MLA styles with more clarity. However, if you find citations difficult you can always take professional help. 

MyPerfectsWords.com can assist with your paper's formatting. Whether you need help with creating an annotated bibliography or require an APA paper writing service, our expert team is available 24/7.

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