MLA Style Quiz
Take our MLA Style Quiz and prove your proficiency in one of the most widely used citation styles in academic writing. This quiz is designed to test your knowledge and understanding of the Modern Language Association (MLA) guidelines, which are essential for students and academics in the humanities.
Through a series of meticulously crafted questions, you will be challenged on everything from the basics of in-text citations and works cited pages to more complex aspects such as handling quotes and citing multiple authors. Whether you're a seasoned scholar looking to refresh your skills or a student preparing for your next Read moreresearch paper, this quiz will help you navigate the nuances of MLA style with ease.
Our MLA Style Quiz not only provides a thorough assessment but also enhances your understanding of proper formatting techniques, ensuring that your academic papers meet the highest standards of scholarship. Get started today and take your writing to the next level by mastering MLA style!
MLA Style Questions and Answers
- 1.
In what corner of the paper do you put the header?
- A.
Upper Right
- B.
Upper Left
- C.
Lower Right
- D.
Lower Left
Correct Answer
A. Upper RightExplanation
In MLA format, the header typically includes the page number and is placed in the upper right corner of each page. This placement ensures that the header is both unobtrusive and consistently positioned, making it easy for readers to locate the page number without distracting from the main text of the paper. The header is important for maintaining the organization of a document, especially in academic writing where documents can be lengthy, and quick reference to specific pages is often necessary. This standard placement also helps maintain a clean and uniform appearance throughout the document.Rate this question:
-
- 2.
You should put the abbreviation p before a page number.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
In MLA style formatting, it is not necessary to use the abbreviation "p" or "pp" before page numbers. This style guideline simplifies citations and maintains a cleaner and more streamlined presentation within the text. When citing page numbers in MLA, you should directly list the number without any preceding labels. This approach is used both in in-text citations and in the Works Cited list, ensuring consistency and ease of reading, which is a core principle in MLA documentation practices.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
Which of the following are correct according to MLA?
- A.
Double Space
- B.
Must use Ariel, Times New Roman, or Script Font
- C.
Bold your title
- D.
Print on 8.5 by 11 inch paper
Correct Answer(s)
A. Double Space
D. Print on 8.5 by 11 inch paperExplanation
In MLA format, two key requirements are to print documents on standard 8.5 by 11-inch (letter size) paper and to double-space the entire text. These guidelines are part of ensuring that academic documents are not only uniform but also easy to read. Double-spacing is particularly important as it improves readability and provides room for comments or corrections in a review process. Both requirements are essential for creating a professional and clean presentation of academic work. These formatting rules help maintain consistency across academic submissions, making it easier for instructors and readers to navigate and engage with the text.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
Do you print one or two sided?
- A.
One Sided
- B.
Two Sided
Correct Answer
A. One SidedExplanation
According to MLA format guidelines, documents should be printed one-sided. This standard is set to ensure clarity and uniformity in academic documents, particularly when they are submitted for grading or review. Printing on one side of the paper prevents any bleed-through of ink that could obscure text and ensures that comments and feedback can be easily added to the reverse side of each page during the review process. This approach not only makes it easier for readers to handle and navigate the document but also maintains a professional appearance.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
MLA require a title page.
Correct Answer
does notExplanation
MLA formatting guidelines typically do not require a title page for most student papers. Instead, MLA style calls for including necessary information such as the student’s name, instructor's name, course title, and date at the beginning of the document, aligned to the left-hand side of the first page. Below this information, centered on the page, the title of the paper should be placed without any special formatting—no underlining, italics, quotation marks, or bold text. This simplified approach helps to keep the document straightforward and focused more on the content rather than on presentation, which is consistent with MLA's emphasis on academic substance.Rate this question:
- 6.
MLA is used to avoid plagerism.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
MLA (Modern Language Association) style is indeed used to help avoid plagiarism, which is the practice of using someone else's work or ideas without proper acknowledgment. By following MLA guidelines for citing sources, writers can clearly indicate where they have used information from other authors, whether through direct quotes, paraphrases, or summaries. This clear citation helps to credit the original authors and distinguishes a writer's own thoughts from those sourced elsewhere. Using MLA style effectively ensures that readers can trace the origins of ideas and information, reinforcing the integrity and reliability of the academic work. This practice not only respects intellectual property but also promotes transparency and academic honesty.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
A Direct Quote has words taken from someone else....
- A.
Word for Word
- B.
Paraphrased
- C.
Used to Define Something
- D.
Not Part of MLA
Correct Answer
A. Word for WordExplanation
A direct quote in MLA style involves taking words from another source or someone else's work exactly as they appear—word for word. This means that the quoted text is identical to the original source, including the same words and punctuation. Using direct quotes allows the writer to convey the original author's exact language and intent, which can be crucial for supporting a specific point or for analysis within an academic paper. It is essential to use quotation marks around the direct quote and provide an in-text citation that includes the author's last name and the page number where the quote can be found, to properly attribute the source and avoid plagiarism. This meticulous attention to detail helps maintain academic integrity and provides readers with a clear path to the original source material.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
What do you use [sic] for?
- A.
To show tense
- B.
To indicate an obvious error copied faithfully from the source
- C.
To add emphases to a word
Correct Answer
B. To indicate an obvious error copied faithfully from the sourceExplanation
The term "[sic]" is used in written texts to indicate that any unusual or seemingly incorrect element in a quoted passage, such as spelling or grammatical errors, was in the original source material and has been reproduced exactly as it appears. It is a Latin word meaning "thus" or "so," and its use in brackets directly after the error clarifies that the mistake is not a typo or error introduced by the current writer but is a faithful replication of the source's original text. This usage helps maintain the accuracy and integrity of the quotation while alerting the reader that the writer is aware of the error but has chosen to preserve the original state of the text to ensure truthful reporting.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
What part of a URL do you need to include?
- A.
Full URL
- B.
Homepage
Correct Answer
A. Full URLExplanation
In MLA formatting, when citing a source from the internet, it is important to include the full URL of the specific page from which the information was obtained, not just the homepage of the website. This is because providing the full URL allows readers to directly access the exact source you used, ensuring transparency and making it easier for them to verify and explore the content further. Including the full URL is particularly crucial when the webpage contains detailed and specific information relevant to the citation. By directing readers to the precise location of the referenced material, you enhance the reliability and credibility of your own work, complying fully with MLA's emphasis on thorough and precise sourcing.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
A works cited page includes every page you looked at for your essay.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
In MLA format, a "Works Cited" page does not include every page or source you may have consulted during your research. Instead, it specifically lists only those sources you have directly cited or paraphrased within your essay. This page provides detailed information about each source that contributed to your arguments and discussions, allowing readers to locate and verify the sources themselves. The purpose of the Works Cited page is to document where you obtained your information and to give proper credit to the original authors, supporting the ethical practice of academic integrity and preventing plagiarism. If you consulted sources but did not cite them in your paper, they should not be included on the Works Cited page.Rate this question:
-
- 11.
The author's first name is the beggining of a citation.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
In MLA format, the citation format in the "Works Cited" list typically begins with the author's last name, followed by a comma and then the first name. This format is used to standardize citations and make it easier to alphabetically organize the Works Cited page, allowing readers to quickly locate the source by the author's surname. Starting with the author's last name helps maintain a consistent and orderly listing, which is crucial for the accessibility and readability of the reference page. Therefore, it is not correct to begin a citation with the author's first name according to standard MLA guidelines.Rate this question:
-
- 12.
Does the works cited page go at the front or back of your essay?
- A.
Front
- B.
Back
Correct Answer
B. BackExplanation
The works cited page is always placed at the end of your essay. This page lists all the sources you referred to or quoted within your essay. It helps readers find these sources if they want to read more about the topics you discussed. By putting it at the back, it does not interfere with the flow of your essay's main content, allowing your arguments and information to stand out without interruption.Rate this question:
-
- 13.
Which of the following is not a reason for using MLA format?
- A.
Finding Sources
- B.
Establishing Credibility
- C.
Using a Consistent Format
- D.
Making Sure Things are Turned in on Time
Correct Answer
D. Making Sure Things are Turned in on TimeExplanation
MLA format is used for several reasons, such as establishing credibility by showing you are following scholarly standards, finding sources easily because the citation style is clear and consistent, and using a consistent format to organize information in a universally recognized way. However, it does not specifically help with making sure things are turned in on time. That aspect is more related to personal time management and project planning.Rate this question:
-
- 14.
What is the second part of a MLA citation for a webpage?
Correct Answer
Title of the WorkExplanation
In MLA format, the second part of a citation for a webpage is the title of the webpage. After citing the author's name first, you then list the title of the webpage in quotation marks. This part of the citation helps identify the specific content on the website that you referenced, making it easier for your readers to find the exact source you used.Rate this question:
- 15.
What do you use for the begining of a citation for a book if an author cannot be found?
Correct Answer
Its TitleExplanation
When a book does not have a discernible author, the title of the book is used at the beginning of the citation instead. This placement ensures that the citation is still properly organized and searchable within your works cited list. The title should be italicized to highlight that it is a book title, which helps maintain clarity and a consistent format within your references.Rate this question:
- 16.
What is the most recent version of MLA?
- A.
6
- B.
7
- C.
8
- D.
Chicago Style
Correct Answer
C. 8Explanation
The most recent version of the MLA format is the 8th edition. This edition was introduced by the Modern Language Association to provide a more streamlined and simplified approach to citation, which allows for more flexibility and adaptability to various types of sources and technological changes. It emphasizes the principles behind citation practices rather than rigid guidelines, making it easier for writers to apply the format across various types of sources.Rate this question:
-
- 17.
What do you do to the second line of a citation and all of the other lines following it?
Correct Answer
Indent ThemExplanation
When formatting a citation, it is common practice to indent the second line and all subsequent lines following it. This is done to visually distinguish each line of the citation and make it easier for the reader to identify where each line begins and ends. By indenting these lines, it helps to create a clear and organized appearance in the citation.Rate this question:
- 18.
Which of the below are citable sources?
- A.
Book
- B.
Bible
- C.
E-mail
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
In academic writing, you can cite a variety of sources including books, religious texts like the Bible, and personal communications such as emails. Each type of source has specific citation guidelines in formats like MLA, APA, or Chicago Style. Citing these sources properly is crucial for providing evidence for your claims and for allowing readers to verify your sources. This practice enhances the credibility of your work by showing that you have engaged with and respected the work of others.Rate this question:
-
- 19.
What margin size do you use for the top, bottom, left, and right?
- A.
1 centimeter
- B.
1 inch
- C.
2 centimeters
- D.
1.5 inches
Correct Answer
B. 1 inchExplanation
The correct answer is 1 inch. This is a commonly used margin size in many documents and publications. It provides a sufficient amount of space on all sides of the page, allowing for easy readability and a clean layout. Using a larger margin size, such as 2 centimeters, may result in wasted space and a less visually appealing document. Conversely, using a smaller margin size, such as 1 centimeter or 1.5 inches, may make the text appear cramped and make it difficult for readers to navigate through the content. Therefore, 1 inch is a balanced and standard choice for margin size.Rate this question:
-
- 20.
What do you want to avoid in Formal Academic Essays?
- A.
Using the word "the"
- B.
Citing your sources
- C.
Using contractions
- D.
Using MLA
Correct Answer
C. Using contractionsExplanation
In formal academic essays, it is important to avoid using contractions, such as "don't," "isn't," or "can't." The use of contractions can make the writing seem informal or casual, which is not suitable for an academic context. Instead, you should use the full forms of the words, such as "do not," "is not," and "cannot," to maintain a formal tone. This practice contributes to the clarity and professionalism of your writing, making it more appropriate for scholarly communication.Rate this question:
-
- 21.
Where does the Thesis Statement go?
Correct Answer
At the end of the introduction At the end of the introduction At the end of the introduction At the end of the introductionExplanation
The thesis statement typically goes at the end of the introduction in an essay or research paper. This placement allows the thesis statement to serve as a focal point that introduces the main argument or purpose of the paper to the reader. It sets the stage for the rest of the document by clearly stating the writer’s position or the central argument that will be explored and supported in the body of the text. Placing the thesis statement at the end of the introduction helps to guide the reader's expectations and prepares them for the structure and content that will follow.Rate this question:
- 22.
How long will every formal essay be?
- A.
3 paragraphs
- B.
5 paragraphs
- C.
7 paragraphs
- D.
5 pages
Correct Answer
B. 5 paragrapHsExplanation
A common format for formal essays, especially in high school and early college courses, is the five-paragraph essay. This structure includes an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph serves a specific purpose: the introduction presents the thesis statement, each of the three body paragraphs details a main point that supports the thesis, and the conclusion summarizes the main points and reiterates the thesis in light of the evidence presented. This format helps organize ideas clearly and concisely, making it a popular choice for assignments that require well-structured argumentative or expository writing.Rate this question:
-
- 23.
Where should you elaborate on your thesis?
Correct Answer
In the body paragraphs.Explanation
The body paragraphs of an essay are the ideal place to elaborate on your thesis statement. Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or piece of evidence that supports the thesis. In these paragraphs, you develop your arguments, provide details, examples, and citations from your research to substantiate your claims. This is where you delve deeply into the subject matter, explain your points thoroughly, and connect them back to the central thesis, thereby reinforcing your argument throughout the essay.Rate this question:
- 24.
What part of a paragraph should state the main idea of said paragraph?
- A.
Conclusion
- B.
Thesis
- C.
Topic Sentence
Correct Answer
C. Topic SentenceExplanation
The topic sentence is the part of a paragraph that states the main idea. It usually appears at the beginning of the paragraph and serves as a guide to what the paragraph will be about. By stating the main idea upfront, the topic sentence helps to organize the paragraph and gives the reader an understanding of the paragraph's content right away. It acts as a mini-thesis for the paragraph, setting up the details and support that will follow in the sentences that come after it.Rate this question:
-
- 25.
You should never revise your thesis.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
It is often necessary to revise your thesis statement as you write and develop your essay. As you gather more evidence and insights, your understanding of the topic might evolve, requiring adjustments to the thesis to better reflect the direction and conclusions of your work. Revising your thesis can ensure that it accurately represents the arguments and evidence presented, making your essay more coherent and effective. It's a normal and beneficial part of the writing process to revisit and refine the thesis as needed.Rate this question:
-
- 26.
The conclusion should echo the main idea of an essay.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The conclusion of an essay should indeed echo the main idea or thesis statement of the essay. This restatement reinforces the central argument or purpose of the essay, providing a sense of closure and emphasizing the significance of the ideas discussed. The conclusion should not only reiterate the thesis but also synthesize the information presented in the body paragraphs, demonstrating how the details and evidence support the overarching claim. This helps to leave a lasting impression on the reader, emphasizing the relevance and importance of the thesis.Rate this question:
-
- 27.
How many body paragraphs should there be in a formal essay.
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
3
- D.
4
Correct Answer
C. 3Explanation
In a standard five-paragraph formal essay, there should be three body paragraphs. Each body paragraph corresponds to a main point that supports the thesis statement outlined in the introduction. These paragraphs allow the writer to delve into details, providing evidence and examples to back up their arguments. The three-body paragraph structure helps maintain a clear and organized flow of ideas, ensuring that each point is given adequate attention without overwhelming the reader. This format is widely used in academic writing, especially for shorter essays.Rate this question:
-
- 28.
What do you need to include in your introduction to capture the readers attention?
Correct Answer
A hookExplanation
To capture the reader's attention in the introduction of an essay, you should include a "hook." A hook is a compelling sentence or question that piques the reader's interest and draws them into reading more. This could be a surprising statistic, a provocative question, an anecdote, or a quote that is directly related to the main topic of the essay. The purpose of the hook is to engage the reader immediately, setting the tone for the rest of the essay and motivating them to continue reading to learn more about the topic being discussed.Rate this question:
- 29.
What should your thesis do? (there can be more than 1 answer)
- A.
Sharpen Your Focus
- B.
Begin an Essay
- C.
Make a Strong Point
Correct Answer(s)
A. Sharpen Your Focus
C. Make a Strong PointExplanation
Your thesis should indeed sharpen your focus and make a strong point. A well-crafted thesis statement clearly defines the scope and purpose of your essay, helping to guide your writing and keep it focused on a specific argument or set of ideas. Additionally, a strong thesis makes a definitive point that establishes your position on the topic, providing a clear argument that you will support with evidence throughout the essay. It is the foundation on which the entire essay is built, influencing the development of your ideas and how you present them to the reader.Rate this question:
-
- 30.
Which component of an essay helps to outline the main points that will be covered in the body paragraphs?
- A.
Conclusion
- B.
Thesis Statement
- C.
Hook
- D.
Bibliography
Correct Answer
B. Thesis StatementExplanation
The thesis statement in an essay serves as a roadmap for the entire piece, outlining the main arguments or points that will be discussed in detail in the body paragraphs. It is strategically placed in the introduction and guides the development of the essay, ensuring that the content remains focused on supporting the central argument. The thesis statement sets expectations for what will follow, making it easier for readers to understand the structure and flow of ideas as they read through the essay. This foundational element is crucial for maintaining a clear and organized presentation of the writer's thoughts.Rate this question:
-
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Jul 09, 2024Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Sep 06, 2012Quiz Created by
Rdwhitetail
Back to top