The research paper should be written on white 81/2-by-11-inch paper.
There should be a 1-inch margin on all sides of the paper. Indent paragraphs a half-inch and set off quotations an inch from the left margin. Double-space the text. This includes quotations as well as the list of works cited.
A seperate title page is not necessary for research papers. Headings, however, should be included at the top left of the first page and need to follow a specific format. The heading should include your name, your instructor's name, the course name and the date. These lines should be on separate, double-spaced lines. Double-space again and center the title. Do not underline the title. The text will follow.
Type your last name and the page number in the upper-right corner of each page. It should be a half-inch from the top of the page and 1 inch from the right side of the paper.
Figures and tables should be labeled as such. Photographs, images, charts, and line drawings are considered figures. Label them with Arabic numerals.
Professors differ on preference as to how to bind papers. Normally a single staple in the upper-left corner is acceptable. The MLA Guide suggests a paper clip. Some professors prefer an actual binder. Check with your teacher or professor before binding your paper.
Books should be cited as author. book title. city of publication: publisher, year. The author is always listed last name first.
Anthologies should be cited as author. Story title. Book title. Name of editor. Edition (if given). City of publication: publisher, year. Page numbers.
Encyclopedia articles are cited in the following manner: author (if given). "Article title." Book title. City of publication: publisher, year.
Magazine and newspaper articles are similar. Cite them as author. "Title of article." Title of magazine or newspaper, date: page(s).
Websites are increasingly popular. They should be cited as title of the site. Editor. Date and/or version number. Name of sponsoring institution. Date of access <URL>. Include as much information for a site as you can. Sometimes an editor or a date might not be available.