MLA Formatting Instructions

When writing an essay, the most common formatting style is usually employed, which is the MLA (Modern Language Association) format. Several guidelines are detailed in this writing format, which writers must utilize in order to compose papers properly.
  1. General Paper Format

    • Type papers on a computer and print them using a standard 8.5 by 11-inch paper. The text should be doubled spaced with 12-point font using a legible font type, such as Times New Roman. Margins should be set at 1 inch. Only one space is used after periods or other punctuation marks. Indents should be .5 inch, which is done by pressing the "Tab" key. Create a header that numbers pages in the top right-hand corner. Use italics for the titles of longer works and for emphasis. Cite any end notes on a separate page just before your "Works Cited" page.

    Formatting the First Page

    • Place your name, instructor's name, course and date in the upper left-hand corner. Double space and center your title (if an instructor requests a title). Use standard capitalization when creating your title. Double space between the title and the first line of text. Create a header in the upper right-hand corner using your last name followed by a page number.

    Section Headers

    • Some writers use section headings to improve readability. MLA suggests using a number and period, followed by a space, then the section title, when dividing a paper into sections.

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