What is a Style Manual?

A style manual specifies in detail the proper format for citing and documenting sources for a paper. Style manuals will provide information for a wide variety of types of sources from books to journals to personal interviews. There are many different style manuals because different disciplines require different ways to document the sources used.

Examples of Style Manuals

Style Manuals are generally available as books, although many also have online versions or supplements available. The style manuals referred to below are available at most libraries and bookstores. Always ask to be sure you are using the most recent edition.

This list below gives the title of the book version first because the most complete information is generally available in the book. Be sure to check the book version if you are not finding the information you need online. The websites provided are most useful for details on citing electronic sources.

  • MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers - The book details how to cite books, book chapters, encyclopedia articles, journals, government reports, films, sound recordings, interviews, etc. Check the Modern Language Association website for information about citing online sources.
  • Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association - Similar to the MLA Handbook, the APA Publication Manual book details how to cite books, book chapters, encyclopedia articles, journals, government reports, films, sound recordings, interviews, etc. Check the American Psychological Association website for information about citing online sources.
  • Chicago Manual of Style - Use the book for complete details for citing various types of sources.
  • A site maintained by the Bedford/St. Martin publishing company, Online! A Reference Guide to Using Internet Sources includes recommendations for applying the Chicago Manual of Style guidelines to internet sources. (This site also covers APA, MLA, CBE styles.)
  • CBE Style Manual - Published by the Council of Biology Editors, this book provides details for citation practices commonly used in scientific disciplines.
  • In addition to the book, you may find this guide to CBE citation style helpful.

Don't forget to refer to the official print edition to answer any questions not covered on the website.

These are only four of the most common style manuals, but there are many more. The Valley Library maintains a page with links to various style guides on the Web.

If you are uncertain which style to use for your particular paper, ask your course instructor.

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