It is particularly important that researchers document and cite the information, ideas, quotes, etc. that are borrowed from other authors or informational sources. Careful documentation will ensure that credit is given with no intent to plagiarize or claim ownership of information belonging to other researchers. As a rule, students should cite all information that is not common knowledge and generally understood by most individuals.

The Modern Language Association has developed formatting rules for placing brief parenthetical citations within the body of the paper with full citations listed on the "Works Cited" page.

Additional information with practical examples for citing electronic as well as print resources is available via the research guide maintained by the Capital Community College Library at http://www.ccc.commnet.edu/mla/index.shtml . The sixth edition of the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers offers a more thorough explanation of MLA guidelines with sample entries for citing print and electronic resources.