Is APA More Popular Than MLA in Academic Writing?

The question of whether APA or MLA is more popular often arises among students and scholars when they begin to engage in academic writing. While it is commonly believed that APA (American Psychological Association) is predominantly used in the social sciences, particularly psychology, sociology, and education, and MLA (Modern Language Association) in the humanities, matters may not be as straightforward as they seem.

The Dichotomy: APA vs. MLA

In many academic circles, it is often assumed that MLA is utilized in the humanities, such as English literature, philosophy, and cultural studies, while APA is used in the social sciences. However, this is not always the case. A personal anecdote illustrates this complexity:

I hold a degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences, with a focus on Foreign Languages and several courses in various Social Sciences. Despite my background, I rarely utilized MLA or APA. My Ph. D. is in Linguistics and Anthropology, areas where the style of the Linguistic Society of America (LSA) and the journal Language and/or the journal American Anthropologist are more predominant. These styles are more akin to those used in the sciences and other social sciences, excluding history.

Further, numerous of my professors never explicitly specified which style to use. The general rule of thumb is to consult your department or instructor if you are unsure which format to use for your paper.

Field-Specific Preferences

The choice between APA and MLA often depends on the discipline and the specific requirements of the college or university. In general, MLA is predominantly used in the humanities, such as English literature and cultural studies, while APA is utilized in the social sciences, including psychology, sociology, and education. Nevertheless, there are often exceptions, and different professors or departments may have their own preferences.

For instance, a study from a sociology department may prefer APA, yet an English literature scholar might opt for MLA. In some fields, the lines between APA and MLA might be blurred, with a blend of both styles being acceptable. Therefore, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines provided by your professor or department and consult them before starting your work.

Consulting Guidelines and Best Practices

Each academic department and instructor often sets their own style guidelines, which can differ from the standardized norms of APA and MLA. For example, the Linguistic Society of America (LSA) and the journal Language or American Anthropologist might be preferred by certain professors or departments. These guidelines often do not align with the strict APA or MLA styles, and the information provided by the professor or department should be closely followed.

Here are some key steps to take when determining the appropriate formatting style for your academic paper:

Check the assignment instructions for specific style requirements. Consult your instructor or academic department for guidance. Review any style guides or handbooks recommended by your department. Familiarize yourself with the preferred style used by relevant journals in your field. Use online resources and style guides from reputable sources to ensure accuracy.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your academic writing adheres to the correct style and avoids any potential mishaps, such as the incorrect citation format.

Conclusion

The popularity of APA and MLA formats can vary greatly depending on the discipline and the specific requirements of your college or university. While APA is often associated with the social sciences and MLA with the humanities, this is not an absolute rule. It is crucial to consult your professor or department’s guidelines and adhere to the style they prefer. Always remember that exceptions do exist, and flexibility in adhering to specific academic standards can lead to a better academic writing experience.