MLA guidelines mandate white 8 1/2-inch by 11-inch paper. Margins are to be one inch on the top, bottom, left side and right side. Indent half an inch (five spaces) for new paragraphs. When setting off quotations, indent an inch (10 spaces). The written document must be double spaced. This includes notes, references and quotations. Have consecutive page numbers on all pages of your paper. Type your last name and page number in the upper right corner, a half inch from the top of each page. Do not abbreviate "page."
MLA guidelines do not require a title page. In the top left margin of your first page, include your name, instructor's name, course title and number, as well as the date. These are double spaced, all on separate lines. After the date, double-space again and center your title. Do not underline or use all caps for the title. Do not end in a period; however, using other punctuation, such as a question mark, is allowed if appropriate. Before beginning your report, double-space after the title.
In regard to the Works Cited section, double-space the entries. Tthe beginning of each source should be flush with the left margin. If the source continues onto the next line, double-space and indent one-half inch. Arrange the citations alphabetically, using the author's last name. Write the author's name as it appears in the article. If using additional works by the same author, cite "---." in subsequent entries instead of repeatedly listing the author. Capitalize all important names in the article title. Italicize the names of journals, books and websites. Use quotations when citing articles inside a bigger collection (i.e., a chapter in a book). List the publication city, dates and publishers. Separate each element with a period (i.e., author. title. magazine title.).
Paper presentations do not need to be "over-the-top." Do not hold your papers together with binders or slip covers. MLA guidelines recommend using a paper clip to attach your pages because clips are easy to remove and make reading easier; however, using a staple in the upper left corner will suffice. Before turning in your paper, check with your professor about presentation. Different universities, departments or professors may have their own policies.