General Guidelines
When preparing a paper in MLA format, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure clarity and uniformity. Here are the fundamental elements to consider:
1. Page Layout
- Margins: Set 1-inch margins on all sides of the paper.
- Font: Use a legible font like Times New Roman, sized at 12 points.
- Line Spacing: Double-space throughout the entire paper, including the Works Cited page.
- Paragraph Indentation: Indent the first line of each paragraph by half an inch (0.5 inches).
- Page Numbers: Include your last name and the page number in the upper right corner of each page, aligned with the margin. For example, Smith 1.
2. Title and Heading
- Title Block: The first page should include a heading in the upper left corner with the following information:
1. Your name
2. Your instructor’s name
3. The course name or number
4. The date (day, month, year)
- Title: Center the title of your paper, using the same font and size as the rest of your text. Do not underline, italicize, or place it in quotation marks.
Formatting the Body of the Paper
The body of your paper is where you present your arguments, analysis, and insights. Adhering to MLA format during this section is crucial for clarity and professionalism.
1. Structure of the Paper
- Introduction: Begin with an engaging introduction that presents your thesis statement clearly. This statement should convey the main argument of your paper.
- Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should support your thesis with evidence, analysis, and discussion. Use topic sentences to introduce the main idea of each paragraph.
- Transitions: Use transitional words and phrases to maintain the flow of your writing. This helps guide the reader through your arguments and ensures coherence.
2. Citing Sources in the Text
Attribution of sources is a critical aspect of academic writing. MLA format requires in-text citations to credit authors for their ideas and research.
- Basic Format: When quoting or paraphrasing a source, include the author’s last name and the page number in parentheses directly after the quote or paraphrase. For example: (Smith 23).
- Multiple Authors: For a source with two authors, include both names in the citation: (Smith and Jones 45). For three or more authors, use the first author's name followed by "et al." (Smith et al. 67).
- No Author: If a source has no known author, cite the title in the citation: ("Study of Literature" 12).
- Multiple Works by the Same Author: If you cite more than one work by the same author, include a shortened title of the work in your citation: (Smith, Literary Analysis 34).
Creating a Works Cited Page
The Works Cited page is an essential component of MLA format, listing all the sources referenced in your paper. It provides readers with the necessary information to locate those sources.
1. General Format
- Placement: The Works Cited page should be the last page of your paper.
- Title: Center the title "Works Cited" at the top of the page.
- Spacing: Double-space all entries, with no extra spaces between them.
- Hanging Indent: Use a hanging indent for each entry, meaning the first line is flush left, and subsequent lines are indented by half an inch.
2. Basic Entry Formats
Here are common formats for various types of sources:
- Books:
- Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Year of Publication.
Example: Smith, John. Understanding Literature. Penguin Books, 2020.
- Journal Articles:
- Last Name, First Name. "Title of Article." Title of Journal, vol. number, no. number, Year, pages.
Example: Jones, Mary. "The Art of Narrative." Literary Studies, vol. 12, no. 3, 2021, pp. 45-67.
- Websites:
- Last Name, First Name. "Title of Webpage." Website Name, Publisher, Date of Publication, URL.
Example: Brown, Lisa. "Modern Poetry." Poetry World, Poetry Foundation, 15 July 2022, www.poetryworld.com/modern-poetry.
- Edited Books:
- Last Name, First Name, editor. Title of Book. Publisher, Year of Publication.
Example: Green, Sarah, editor. Essays on Modern Literature. Academic Press, 2019.
Using MLA Format for Different Types of Papers
While the core elements of MLA format remain consistent, specific types of papers may require additional considerations.
1. Research Papers
Research papers in MLA format typically involve extensive research and analysis. Here are some tips:
- Thesis Statement: Clearly state your thesis in the introduction.
- Evidence: Support your arguments with credible sources, properly cited in MLA format.
- Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your thesis in light of the evidence presented.
2. Creative Writing Papers
For creative writing assignments, such as essays analyzing a piece of literature or art, adhere to the following:
- Analysis: Focus on your interpretation and analysis of the work.
- Quotes: Use quotes from the text to support your insights.
- Personal Voice: While maintaining academic rigor, it's acceptable to incorporate your voice and perspective.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned writers can make errors when adhering to MLA format. Here are common pitfalls to avoid:
1. Incorrect In-text Citations: Always ensure that your citations match the corresponding entries in your Works Cited page.
2. Improper Formatting: Double-check your margins, line spacing, and font size before submitting.
3. Neglecting the Works Cited Page: Ensure every source cited in your paper appears in the Works Cited list.
Conclusion
In conclusion, MLA format for writing a paper is a crucial aspect of academic writing that promotes clarity, consistency, and credibility. Following the guidelines outlined in this article will help you create a well-structured and properly formatted paper that meets the standards of the Modern Language Association. By paying attention to the details of formatting, citations, and organization, you will present your ideas effectively and professionally. Remember, mastering MLA format can significantly enhance the quality of your academic work and is an essential skill for any student in the humanities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MLA format?
MLA format is a style guide used for writing and formatting research papers, primarily in the humanities. It provides guidelines for citations, formatting, and overall structure.
What are the key components of an MLA formatted paper?
Key components include a header with your last name and page number, a title centered on the first page, in-text citations, and a Works Cited page at the end.
How do I create a Works Cited page in MLA format?
To create a Works Cited page, list all sources used in your paper alphabetically by the author's last name, following specific formatting rules for each type of source.
What is the proper font and size for MLA format?
MLA format recommends using a legible font like Times New Roman, size 12, with double-spacing throughout the paper.
How do I format in-text citations in MLA?
In-text citations in MLA format typically include the author's last name and the page number from which the information was taken, for example: (Smith 23).
Should I include a title page in MLA format?
No, MLA format does not require a title page. Instead, you should include your name, instructor's name, course, and date at the top of the first page, followed by the title of your paper.
What spacing is required for MLA papers?
MLA format requires double-spacing throughout the entire paper, including the Works Cited page, with no extra spaces between paragraphs.
How do I cite a book in MLA format?
To cite a book in MLA format, use the following structure: Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Year of Publication.
Are there specific margins required for MLA format?
Yes, MLA format requires 1-inch margins on all sides of the paper.
