MLA Works Cited: Alphabetizing Entries with Numbers

📚 Understanding MLA Works Cited and Numerical Entries

Creating a Works Cited page in MLA style can be tricky, especially when dealing with entries that begin with numbers. The Modern Language Association (MLA) has specific guidelines to ensure consistency and clarity. This guide will walk you through the process of alphabetizing entries that start with numerals, helping you create a flawless Works Cited page.

📜 Historical Context and Evolution of MLA Style

The MLA style, governed by the Modern Language Association, has evolved over time to reflect changes in scholarly communication. Initially focused on literature and languages, its scope has broadened to encompass various disciplines in the humanities. The handling of numerical entries in Works Cited pages has been refined to maintain logical organization and ease of access for readers.

🔑 Key Principles for Alphabetizing with Numbers in MLA

• 🔢 Ignore Initial Numerals: When alphabetizing, disregard any initial numerals. Treat the number as if it were spelled out.
• ✍️ Treat as Spelled-Out Words: Imagine that '2023' is spelled out as 'Two Thousand Twenty-Three' for alphabetization purposes.
• 🧮 Consider the Subsequent Word: After 'imagining' the spelled-out form, use the following word to determine the correct alphabetical order.
• 📌 Consistency is Key: Apply this rule consistently throughout your Works Cited page.

💡 Practical Examples

Let's look at a few examples to illustrate this principle:

Suppose you have the following entries:

• "1984" by George Orwell
• "A History of Time" by Stephen Hawking
• "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" by Jules Verne

Here’s how you would alphabetize them:

1. "A History of Time" by Stephen Hawking (starts with 'A')
2. "1984" by George Orwell (treat as 'Nineteen Eighty-Four', so look at 'Eighty')
3. "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" by Jules Verne (treat as 'Twenty Thousand', so look at 'Thousand')

🧮 More Examples

Consider these titles:

• "10 Steps to Better Writing"
• "The Old Man and the Sea"
• "24/7: Late Capitalism and the Ends of Sleep"

Alphabetized Order:

1. "10 Steps to Better Writing" (treated as 'Ten Steps...')
2. "24/7: Late Capitalism and the Ends of Sleep" (treated as 'Twenty-Four Seven...')
3. "The Old Man and the Sea"

📝 Conclusion

Alphabetizing entries with numbers in MLA style doesn't have to be daunting. By remembering to treat the numbers as if they were spelled out, and then alphabetizing based on the imagined spelled-out form, you can maintain a clear and professional Works Cited page. Always aim for consistency, and double-check your work for accuracy. Happy writing! 🎉