For essays, MLA style calls for essay sections to be numbered using an Arabic number. The format is the number, a period, a space and the section name. For example, the first line would read: 1. In the beginning; second line would read 2. In the middle.
The numeric format can be used to create levels within the paper. When using this format, MLA guidelines state that the number begin flush left, followed by a period and a space. Type the heading after the space. If there are subheads for the numbered title, begin the subhead flush left, followed by the level, a period and the numeral of the subhead.
A numeric format would include: 1. ; 1.2 ; 1.3 ; 2. ; 2.1 and so on.
Alternate bold and Italic font for the first four headings in MLA style. Use the regular font and underline remaining headings. For example, headings would be formatted as Level 1 Heading: bold, flush left; Level 2 Heading: italics, flush left; indent Level 3 Heading: centered, bold; indent Level 4 Heading: centered, italics; Level 5 Heading: underlined, flush left.
Level 1 and Level 2 are flush left, Level 3 and Level 4 are one indent from left, and Level 5 is flush left, aligning with Levels 1 and 2.