Difference between Works Cited and Bibliography
In academic writing, proper citation is crucial for giving credit to the original authors and avoiding plagiarism. Two commonly used terms in citation are “Works Cited” and “Bibliography.” Although they serve similar purposes, there are distinct differences between the two. Understanding these differences can help writers and researchers effectively document their sources and maintain academic integrity.
Works Cited
The term “Works Cited” is typically used in MLA (Modern Language Association) citation style. It is a list of all the sources that the writer has referenced or cited in their work. This list is usually placed at the end of the paper and follows the main text. The purpose of the Works Cited list is to provide a comprehensive record of all the sources used in the research process.
In MLA style, the Works Cited list includes all the sources cited in the text, such as books, journal articles, websites, and other materials. The entries are formatted according to MLA guidelines, which include author names, publication dates, and other relevant information. The Works Cited list is organized alphabetically by the author’s last name, making it easy for readers to locate specific sources.
Bibliography
On the other hand, a “Bibliography” is a more comprehensive list of sources that the writer has consulted during their research, whether or not they have directly cited them in the text. A bibliography includes all the sources mentioned in the Works Cited list, as well as additional sources that were used for background information or for supporting the writer’s arguments.
In APA (American Psychological Association) citation style, the term “References” is used instead of “Works Cited” or “Bibliography.” Similar to MLA, the References list includes all the sources cited in the text. However, in APA style, the References list is also used to indicate the sources that were consulted but not cited directly.
Differences in Purpose and Scope
The primary difference between Works Cited and Bibliography lies in their purpose and scope. The Works Cited list focuses on the sources that the writer has directly cited in their work, while the Bibliography encompasses a broader range of sources, including those that were used for background research or for supporting the writer’s arguments.
Moreover, the Works Cited list is organized alphabetically by the author’s last name, whereas the Bibliography may be organized by the type of source or in a different order, depending on the citation style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the difference between Works Cited and Bibliography lies in their purpose and scope. While the Works Cited list includes only the sources that were directly cited in the text, the Bibliography is a more comprehensive list that includes all the sources used in the research process. Understanding these differences is essential for maintaining academic integrity and providing readers with a complete record of the writer’s sources.
