The Great Gatsby MLA: Never Miss A Citation Again

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The Great Gatsby MLA: Never Miss a Citation Again

For students tackling F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, mastering MLA citation is crucial. A poorly cited paper, no matter how insightful, can significantly impact your grade. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of properly citing The Great Gatsby using MLA format, ensuring you never miss a citation again.

Understanding MLA Citation Basics

Before diving into Gatsby-specific examples, let's review the fundamental principles of MLA (Modern Language Association) citation. MLA style emphasizes brevity and clarity, using parenthetical in-text citations linked to a "Works Cited" page at the end of your paper. This system allows readers to easily verify your sources and avoid plagiarism.

Key Components of an MLA Citation:

• In-text citation: A brief reference within your text (usually author's last name and page number).
• Works Cited page: A separate page listing all sources used, providing complete bibliographic information.

Citing The Great Gatsby in Your Essay

Let's explore how to cite different elements of The Great Gatsby using MLA format.

Citing Direct Quotes:

Direct quotes require both in-text and Works Cited entries.

Example:

"Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgiastic future that year by year recedes before us" (Fitzgerald 180).

Works Cited Entry:

Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. Scribner, 2004.

Citing Paraphrases and Summaries:

Even when paraphrasing or summarizing, you must still cite the source.

Example:

Fitzgerald uses symbolism throughout The Great Gatsby to explore themes of wealth, loss, and the American Dream (Fitzgerald 15).

Note: The page number isn't always necessary for paraphrases and summaries, especially if the reference spans multiple pages or the entire work.

Citing Specific Editions:

If you're using a specific edition (e.g., a particular anniversary edition), include this information in your Works Cited entry.

Example:

Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. The Great Gatsby Centennial Edition. Scribner, 2020.

Citing Multiple Works by the Same Author:

If your paper includes citations from multiple works by Fitzgerald, distinguish them in your Works Cited entry using shortened titles.

Example:

Fitzgerald, F. Scott. Gatsby. Scribner, 2004. Fitzgerald, F. Scott. Tender Is the Night. Scribner, 1934.

In your in-text citations, you can use shortened titles to distinguish between works if the author is the same:

"The character's despair is evident" (Gatsby 50). "This echoes a similar theme" (Tender Is the Night 120).

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Incorrect page numbers: Double-check your page numbers carefully.
• Missing citations: Cite every direct quote, paraphrase, and summary.
• Inconsistent formatting: Maintain consistent formatting throughout your paper and Works Cited page.
• Using only in-text citations: Remember, the Works Cited page is essential.

Mastering MLA for Academic Success

Proper MLA citation is not just about avoiding plagiarism; it's about demonstrating your academic integrity and showcasing your understanding of research practices. By consistently applying the guidelines outlined above, you can confidently cite The Great Gatsby and other sources in your papers, ensuring academic success. Remember to consult your instructor's guidelines and the official MLA Handbook for the most up-to-date information. By mastering this crucial skill, you'll enhance the credibility and impact of your work. So, next time you’re analyzing the complexities of Jay Gatsby's world, you'll be equipped to do so with flawless citations.