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How to Start the Body of a Paper in MLA Format

Used by teacher and scholars, MLA -- Modern Language Association -- format promotes the study of the English language. Students learn about MLA in secondary education and continue to develop an in-depth understanding if they continue their education in post-secondary schools. MLA sets standards for how papers should be written or typed. Following these rules will increase your understanding of the English language while helping you pass your English class.

Instructions

- 1
  Use 8 1/2-by-11-inch white paper and set your word processor with 1-inch margins on all sides.
- 2
  Double-space the lines of your paper. Word processors have a feature to automatically set double-spacing.
- 3
  Use a regular or italics font such as Times New Roman or Arial. The font should always be 12 point in size -- nothing bigger or smaller.
- 4
  Indent the beginning of each paragraph using the tab key once.
- 5
  Number the page on the upper-right hand corner of your paper.
- 6
  Space once after each punctuation mark unless otherwise specified.

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