| University Libraries
Most people know style guides as rules for citation formatting. Common and popular style guides include Modern Language Association (MLA) and American Psychological Association (APA).
Style guides, however, are not just for citation. They include a wide range of rules and guidelines for works in their respective fields, from grammar and language use to the font and size of headings in a work. Generally style manuals include everything a writer needs to know in order to make their work look and read just like every other work written in that style — the look of the page, the way other authors are referenced in the body of the work, and even the tone of the writing.
Use Zotero to generate accurate citations and quick bibliographies. Get started with these videos:
Do you need a specialized citation style beyond APA, Chicago, or MLA? Check out Zotero's Style Repository for specialized formats.
The Libraries provide workshops to get you started using Zotero. Check the workshop calendar for times and locations.
Need more citation help? Check out the Purdue Online Writing Lab for assistance with citing APA, MLA and Chicago.
The Writing Center offers free writing support to Mason students, faculty and staff. Accomplished graduate and undergraduate students provide face-to-face tutoring, online tutoring, and workshops. They work with writers through all stages of the writing process from brainstorming and organizing to revising and polishing. To meet with a Writing Center tutor please schedule a virtual or face-to-face appointment.
ESL students who would like additional assistance can apply for the Writing Center's Opt-In Program.