How to Format Citations in APA 7th vs MLA 9th (Student Guide)
A complete student guide to formatting in-text citations, reference lists, and bibliographies across APA 7th and MLA 9th editions without paywalls.
September 2, 2026
10 min read
Understanding Citation Styles in College & University
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Whether you are writing a research paper in the social sciences (APA format) or an analysis essay in the humanities (MLA format), mastering citation conventions ensures academic integrity and protects against plagiarism.
1. APA 7th Edition vs. MLA 9th Edition at a Glance
| Feature | APA 7th Edition | MLA 9th Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Disciplines | Psychology, Education, Sciences, Business | English, Literature, Art, Humanities |
| In-Text Citation | (Smith, 2026) | (Smith 45) |
| Author Formatting | Last name + Initials (Smith, J. A.) | Full Name (Smith, John A.) |
| Bibliography Title | References | Works Cited |
2. Key APA 7th Edition Rules
- Year of Publication: Emphasized immediately after author name:
Smith, J. (2026). Title of work... - Website URLs: Include direct hyperlink without preceding "Retrieved from" unless a retrieval date is required.