Sentence Combining in MLA Format: Citing Combined Sources

📚 Sentence Combining in MLA Format: Citing Combined Sources

Sentence combining is a technique used to improve writing style by joining short, choppy sentences into longer, more complex ones. When using multiple sources, it’s crucial to cite them correctly to avoid plagiarism. In MLA format, this involves specific guidelines for in-text citations and works cited entries.

📜 History and Background

Sentence combining emerged as a pedagogical tool in the late 20th century, aiming to enhance students' writing skills by encouraging them to manipulate sentence structures. The need to cite sources accurately has always been a cornerstone of academic integrity, with MLA format evolving to provide clear guidelines for attribution.

🔑 Key Principles

• 🔍 Understanding MLA Citation: Grasp the basics of MLA in-text citations and works cited entries. This includes knowing how to format author names, titles, and publication information.
• ✍️ Combining Sentences Effectively: Use coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet), subordinating conjunctions (although, because, if, since, when, etc.), and relative pronouns (who, whom, which, that) to combine related ideas.
• 🔗 Citing Multiple Sources in One Sentence: When combining information from multiple sources in a single sentence, cite all sources within the same set of parentheses.
• 📌 Maintaining Clarity: Ensure that the combined sentence is clear and easy to understand. Avoid overly complex sentences that obscure the meaning.
• ✔️ Avoiding Plagiarism: Always cite your sources, even when paraphrasing or summarizing information.

✍️ Real-World Examples

Example 1: Basic Combination with Multiple Citations

Original Sentences:

Source A: "The study found a correlation between exercise and mental health." (Smith 22)

Source B: "Regular physical activity can reduce symptoms of depression." (Jones 45)

Combined Sentence:

Regular physical activity can reduce symptoms of depression (Jones 45), and a study found a correlation between exercise and mental health (Smith 22).

Example 2: Using a Subordinating Conjunction

Original Sentences:

Source A: "Climate change is a significant threat to biodiversity." (Brown 112)

Source B: "Habitat loss is a primary driver of species extinction." (Davis 78)

Combined Sentence:

Because habitat loss is a primary driver of species extinction (Davis 78), climate change is a significant threat to biodiversity (Brown 112).

Example 3: Integrating Quotes from Multiple Sources

Original Sentences:

Source A: "The results were statistically significant." (Garcia 56)

Source B: "Further research is needed to confirm these findings." (Lee 89)

Combined Sentence:

While "the results were statistically significant" (Garcia 56), "further research is needed to confirm these findings" (Lee 89).

📝 Conclusion

Combining sentences in MLA format with multiple citations requires careful attention to detail. By understanding the principles of sentence combining and MLA citation, you can create clear, concise, and well-documented academic writing. Always prioritize accuracy and clarity to effectively communicate your ideas and give proper credit to your sources.