What is a Style Manual?

Examples of Style Manuals

Style Manuals are generally available as books, although many also have Web 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 on the Web version. The Web sites provided are most useful for details on citing electronic sources.

Note: Each of the Web links below will open a new browser window. Simply close the window to return to this page.

  • 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.
  • Because the use of Web pages wasn't common when the most recent edition of the MLA Handbook was published, the Modern Language Association home page has a section titled "Documenting Sources from the World Wide Web".
  • 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.
  • The American Psychological Association home page includes a section titled "How to Cite Information From the World Wide Web" which gives information on this topic not found in the print version of their publication manual.
  • 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 web site.

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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