What are the differences between APA and MLA?

Can you explain the main differences between APA and MLA citation styles?

Sure! APA (American Psychological Association) is commonly used in social sciences, while MLA (Modern Language Association) is often used in humanities. One key difference is in the formatting of in-text citations and the reference list.

What are the specific formatting rules for each style?

In APA, in-text citations include the author's last name and the year of publication, like this: (Smith, 2020). In MLA, it typically includes the author's last name and the page number, like this: (Smith 23). The reference list in APA is titled 'References,' while in MLA it's called 'Works Cited.'

Are there any other notable differences?

Yes, APA emphasizes the date of publication more, reflecting the importance of recent research in social sciences. MLA focuses more on the authorship and the work itself, which is crucial in literary studies.

Which style should I use for my research paper?

It depends on your field of study. If you're in psychology or education, go with APA. If you're in literature or the arts, MLA is the better choice.