Sites Which Help One Cite
Learning the Mechanics of MLA, APA, Turabian and Chicago are primarily mechanical skills (like spelling) and require familiarization and memorization. As you work with the system foremost in your field you will come to learn different methods, but you will always need to go and check. Most of us do not have the handbooks memorized (just as most of us do not have dictionaries memorized) but we do know where to look to make sure there are no mistakes. Here are some suggestions:
The following web sites actually offer automatic type in the blanks to help you format your citations according to a particular method. However remember that you are still required to check and be certain that you have indeed followed the directions that your instructor laid out. As the "Son of Citation" puts it "There are many nuances to how MLA and APA citations are formed, and this software may not pick up on all of the circumstances that influence a citation's proper format. Because of the myriad of characteristics in information sources. Neither David Warlick, nor The Landmark Project, can fully guarantee the accuracy of citations generated by this tool. If you have questions about the proper citation of these or other source types, consult with your local copy of: MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers: 6th Edition or • Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association: 5th Edition"