This format is simple and economical as compared to other styles because the interruptions used are minimal. It is also easy to locate the in-text citation used by the writer. Writers are often encouraged to use the same format when writing so as to provide for consistency in the field of study. MLA format is also able to establish credibility as it helps demonstrate the awareness of the needs of the target audience. Also, MLA is efficient simply because it focuses on ideas other than using unfamiliar citations. Some of the common assignments that use the MLA style are those that are argumentative, persuasive, and expository as well as those that show cause and effect (Hayot, 2014). .
Another widely used format is the Harvard style of writing. This type of writing is used in disciplines such as law, medicine as well as behavioral and natural sciences among others. Harvard format of writing is also referred to as the Author- Date format of referencing and writing. Harvard varies from other styles simply because of some minor abbreviations, use of punctuation marks, italics and capitalization. Harvard form of writing is convenient in that it eliminates the process of using footnotes which is viewed by most writers as cumbersome. It uses parenthesis form of referencing saving the reader the time of turning pages to find citation details as all the details are cited within the text. Veracity is also simplified for most readers and lecturers as well. Harvard style of referencing helps the readers to verify the accuracy of the paper quickly. The author-date form of referencing gives instant clues on the source that has been used. Harvard also reduces the confusion of having to use double footnotes as in the case of Turabian and Chicago. Use of double footnotes can make the final draft complicated for the target audiences. .
Chicago also denoted as Turabian is another form of referencing and writing format used by writers.