If you're writing a paper in MLA or APA style, you may be wondering if and when you should use footnotes (or endnotes). In fact, the MLA style guides recommend limited use of notes in your papers. Instead, you should stick to the use of parenthetical citations to reference your sources.
Upon occasion, some student writers will desire to make comments and clarifications that might serve to disrupt the flow of the paper. In that case, it is acceptable for the writer to use an occasional note. Any notes should be created with the insert footnote command on your word processor. This feature will ensure that the notes are formatted correctly.
But don't take any chances! As always, you should ask your instructor if you have any questions about the use of special elements in your paper.
On the other hand, students who are writing papers in the Turabian style of writing may be required to use footnotes or endnotes. The notes-bibliography method is preferred in this style, and you don't have to limit your use to source references. In this style of writing you may use footnotes or endnotes to do a few things.
- You can make acknowledgments (generally in the first note).
- You may make clarifications and add special information.
- You can add a cross reference.
If you're wondering about the difference between footnotes and endnotes, you should know that there is not a difference; it is all about preference! If your instructor has a preference, that's the style you should use.
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