Open your research paper document in the word processor of your preference. Print out a copy for review.
Research the similarities and differences between MLA and APA styles. For example, both styles require a heading with the title and page numbers in the upper right-hand corner of each page, double-spaced pages, one-inch margins and a 12-point font in Ariel or Times New Roman. However, the styles differ in how to format in-text citations and reference pages. In-text citations in the MLA style include the author's name and page numbers, but in APA they include the author's name and date of the publication.
Take your paper written in MLA style and mark with a red pen all the places where changes need to be made to conform to APA style. Look specifically for the items listed as differences in Step 2. However, review other areas of format to make sure your paper conforms to proper APA style.
Open your MLA-formatted paper on your computer and transfer the corrections made on your printed document to your electronic file. Save periodically as you work.
Review the paper once you have finished entering corrections to make sure all relevant changes have been made. Save your updated version before closing your word-processing program.