Creating a well-formatted appendix in MLA style can significantly enhance your research paper's clarity and professionalism. An appendix is a useful tool for including supplementary materials that are too lengthy or distracting to include in the main body of your paper, but are still relevant to your research. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your appendix is correctly formatted and contributes positively to your overall grade.
Understanding the Purpose of an Appendix in MLA
An appendix is a section placed at the end of your MLA paper. It's designed to hold supplementary materials that support your research but aren't essential for understanding the main argument. This might include:
- Raw data: Extensive datasets, survey results, or interview transcripts.
- Images and figures: Large maps, charts, or photographs that would disrupt the flow of the text.
- Tables: Complex tables or data sets that would be cumbersome in the body of the paper.
- Supporting documents: Copies of relevant articles, contracts, or legal documents.
- Transcripts: Detailed transcriptions of interviews or audio recordings.
- Computer Code: If your paper involves programming, including the code in an appendix is helpful.
- Questionnaires: A copy of the questionnaire used to gather data.
Formatting Your MLA Appendix
The formatting of your appendix within the MLA style guide is crucial. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Labeling Your Appendix
- Start a new page: The appendix begins on a new page after your Works Cited page.
- Center the title: Center the title "Appendix" at the top of the page. If you have multiple appendices (e.g., Appendix A, Appendix B), label each accordingly. For example: Appendix A: Survey Data or Appendix B: Interview Transcripts
2. Formatting the Content
- Maintain consistency: Use the same font, font size, and margins as the rest of your paper (usually Times New Roman, 12-point font, 1-inch margins).
- Numbering: Number all pages of the appendix consecutively, continuing from the last page number of your Works Cited page. For example, if your Works Cited page ends on page 15, your Appendix pages will begin at 16.
- Clear headings: Use clear and concise headings and subheadings to organize your appendix materials.
- Proper citation: If you include material from external sources within your appendix, cite them correctly using MLA in-text citations and include them in your Works Cited page.
3. Referencing the Appendix in Your Paper
Make sure to clearly refer to your appendix within the main text of your paper. This lets the reader know where to find supporting information. For instance: "For a complete list of survey responses, see Appendix A."
4. Example of an Appendix Entry
Let's say you have a table of data in your appendix. You could present it like this:
Appendix A: Data on Student Performance
| Student ID | Score | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 12345 | 85 | B |
| 67890 | 92 | A |
| 13579 | 78 | C |
Why an Appendix Matters
A well-organized appendix demonstrates your attention to detail and your commitment to presenting comprehensive research. By including supplementary materials in a clear and accessible manner, you enhance the overall quality and credibility of your paper. Remember that an appendix should support your main arguments; it shouldn't be a dumping ground for irrelevant information.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Including crucial information: Avoid placing essential information in the appendix. Important findings should be in the main body.
- Poor organization: Make sure your appendix is clearly structured and easy to navigate.
- Unnecessary content: Only include information relevant to your research.
- Forgetting to cite sources: Properly cite any material from external sources.
By following these guidelines, you can create a professional and effective appendix that complements your MLA research paper. Remember, a well-executed appendix not only supports your argument but also showcases your meticulous approach to academic writing.
