Bibliography Generator
Create a formatted bibliography or reference list from multiple sources in APA, MLA, or Chicago style.
This document is a template for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for your specific needs.
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How to use this calculator
- 1
Select your citation style (APA, MLA, or Chicago).
- 2
Optionally enter your essay or paper title.
- 3
Paste or type each formatted reference into a Source field.
- 4
The tool will sort entries alphabetically and format the heading.
- 5
Copy or download the bibliography and paste it into your document.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a bibliography and a reference list?
In APA, "References" includes only sources you cited in your paper. A "Bibliography" (used in Chicago style) can include sources you consulted but did not directly cite. MLA calls its list "Works Cited" — sources cited in the text only.
Should I sort bibliography entries alphabetically?
Yes, in APA, MLA, and Chicago styles, entries are sorted alphabetically by the first author's last name. If there is no author, sort by the title (ignoring "A", "An", "The"). Our generator sorts automatically.
What is a hanging indent?
A hanging indent means the first line of each bibliography entry is flush with the left margin, while all subsequent lines are indented 0.5 inches (1.27 cm). In Microsoft Word: select all entries → Paragraph → Indentation → Special → Hanging. In Google Docs: Format → Align & Indent → Indentation options → Hanging.
Can I have more than 6 sources?
This tool supports up to 6 sources. For larger bibliographies, use the tool in batches — copy each output, then combine them in your word processor and sort alphabetically.
Free Bibliography Generator — APA, MLA, Chicago
APA References vs MLA Works Cited
Both APA "References" and MLA "Works Cited" list only the sources you actually cited in your text. The main difference is format: APA uses author–date (Smith, 2023) while MLA uses author–page (Smith 45). Chicago-style bibliographies can include sources you read but did not directly cite.
How to format a bibliography correctly
Key rules for every style: 1) Alphabetical order by author last name. 2) Hanging indent (not a number list). 3) Double-spacing in Word documents. 4) Italicise book and journal titles. 5) Use access dates for web sources. Our generator outputs the correct heading ("References", "Works Cited", or "Bibliography") automatically.
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