Typography
MLA recommends using 12-point Times New Roman font or another readable typeface (e.g. serif).
Use double-spacing throughout the entire paper.
Leave 1 inch margins on the top, bottom, and each side.
Indent the first line of each paragraph half an inch from the left margin.
Quotes longer than 4 lines should be written as a block of text a half an inch from the left margin.
Heading and Title
An MLA research paper does not need a title page, but your instructor may require one. If no instructions are given, follow the MLA guidelines below:
Type the following one inch from the top of the first page, flush with the left margin (double spacing throughout).
Your Name
Your Instructor's Name
Course Number or Name
Date
Center the title on the next line. Follow the rules for capitalization. Do not italicize, underline, or bold the title. An exception is when your title includes a title. Example: The Attitude toward Violence in A Clockwork Orange
Indent the next line and begin typing your text.
Include your last name and page numbers in the upper right-hand corner of every page. The page numbers will be one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. If your instructor prefers no page number on the first page, begin numbering from 2 on the second page.
Formatting first page MLA MS Word using a MAC
Formatting first page MLA Goggle.dox
Formatting first page MLA MS Word using PC
MLA Format Setup in Word 2013
The links below provide step by step instructions on setting up your paper using MLA Style guidelines.
Sample MLA Paper
- MLA Research Paper TemplateProperly formatted MLA Style research paper. Download and save to your computer so that you will always have the correct format for writing.
There are three sample papers available in the MLA Style Center. Check them out to see the correct formatting.