Researching
Finding information, using the ideas of others, citing sources.
MLA Paper Formatting
There are a few important things to remember when starting to write your paper using MLA Style. MLA does not just affect citation, but also how the actual text sits on the page.
The Basics
- Papers using MLA are double-spaced, computer typed, and printed on 8.5" x 11" paper.
- Stick with either Times New Roman or Courier fonts when writing in MLA. This will give your paper a clean, professional feel.
- After periods at the end of each sentence, leave one space before beginning the next sentence (unless otherwise instructed by your professor).
- The paper should have 1" margins on all four sides and paragraphs are to be indented ½" from the left margin or one tab key.
Creating Your First Page
MLA has specific requirements about what appears on your first page.
Heading
You will need to include a heading when writing a paper in MLA Style. Be sure to include your first name, the instructor’s name, the course the paper is for, and the date in the upper left-hand corner. This content will be double-spaced.
Title
The title of the composition will be located underneath the heading and should be centered on the page. Do not underline or italicize. This text should be double-spaced as well.
Creating a Header
Your last name and the page number will should be placed in the right-hand corner of every page (excluding the first page). It will be located ½ inch from the top and should be aligned to the right margin of the page. Do not type the header in manually; instead, use the header feature in your word processor.
Sources
Gibali, Joseph. MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. 6th ed. New York: Modern Language Association, 2003
Hacker, Diana. A Writer’s Reference. 6th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2007..
Purdue University. “MLA Formatting and Style Guide.” The OWL at Purdue. 4 Dec. 2007. http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/557/01/.
