Department of English and Modern Languages
|
Department Links
|
 |
|
|
|
MLA Paper Format Information
Basic Paper Format (http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/research/r_mla.html):
The preparation of manuscripts in MLA style is covered in chapter four of the MLA Style Manual , as well as in chapter three of the Handbook for Writing Research Papers . Here are some basic guidelines for formatting a paper in MLA style.
General Guidelines:
-
Type your paper or write it on a computer and print it out on standard-sized paper (8.5 X 11 inches).
-
Double-space your paper.
-
Set the margins of your document to 1 inch on all sides.
-
Create a header that numbers all pages consecutively in the upper right-hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor or whoever is reading the manuscript may ask that you omit the number on your first page. Always follow their guidelines.)
-
Use either underlining or italics throughout your essay for highlighting the titles of longer works and providing emphasis.
-
If you have any notes, include them on a page before your works cited page and format them the same way as your works cited list.
Formatting the first page of your paper:
-
Do not make a title page for your paper unless specifically requested.
-
Provide a double-spaced entry in the top left corner of the first page that lists your name, your instructor's name, the course, and the date.
-
Create a header that numbers all pages consecutively in the upper right-hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor or whoever is reading the manuscript may ask that you omit the number on your first page. Always follow their guidelines.)
-
Center your title on the line below the header with your name, and begin your paper immediately below the title.
Sample MLA formatted paper: http://www.dianahacker.com/pdfs/Hacker-Daly-MLA.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions: http://www.mla.org/style_faq