Skip to Main Content

Resources by format

Here are listed guides for finding materials based on their formats.

Style manuals do more than dictate citation formats—they establish standards for consistency in writing, covering grammar, punctuation, layout, and more. They also guide the presentation of tables and figures, the formatting of headings and page numbers, capitalization and abbreviation rules, and field-specific nomenclature. Consulting a style guide before writing can save time and improve clarity.

Choosing a citation style

For assignments, the citation style is often determined by your instructor. For manuscripts you plan to submit, the style is often determined by the publisher or editor.

When you are allowed to choose a citation style, use these guidelines:

  • Review your cited sources. Is a common style used? 
  • What discipline is your document for?
    • Social sciences, psychology, education typically use APA
    • Humanities typically use MLA
    • Life sciences typically uses CSE
    • Medicine typically uses AMA
    • Communication typically uses AP
    • History uses Chicago or Turabian