Guide to MLA Format
Picture this, it’s the end of the class, and the lecturer has just instructed you to complete an assignment in MLA format. Although the term seems familiar, the chances that you do not know what the MLA format is and how to use it for your assignment. Don’t worry; the experienced experts at Online Help exam are here to help.
This definitive guide discusses everything you should know about the MLA format, including when the MLA format is used and MLA format citation.
What is The MLA Format?
The MLA format, also known as The Modern Language Association, is a format that is used in various types of writing. It’s usually used in humanities, science, and art assignments. Like other academic formats, the MLA format also has unique guidelines and styles.
The common defining characteristics of the MLA format include:
- Cited page
- Double spacing
- Blockquotes for quotations
- No periods on abbreviations
- Paper measurements should be 8.5 by 11 inches
- 1-inch margin on each side of the paper
- 12 times New Romans, Helvetica, or Arial format
- No title page
- Author last name and page number on the top
- Heading is left-justified
When is MLA Format Used?
The MLA is usually on the final copy of each academic paper, including essays, research papers, and reports for arts and humanity courses. Simply put, the MLA format is used for English, Linguistics, Theatre, Hospitality, and other courses that fall in this category. You can always confirm with your instructor before using the MLA format on your paper.
How does MLA Format Looks Like?
Now that you know what MLA format is and when you should use it, let’s discuss how to set up MLA format on Word and Google Docs.
How to Set Up MLA Format in Word?
At first, you are likely to land into some trouble when creating MLA format on Microsoft Word. However, it will become easy when you get used to this comprehensive guideline. Here are the top things to remember when setting up MLA format on Microsoft Office.
- Create a header and title with your full name, instructors name, course name, and due date
- Create paper margins to 1 inch. Simply click the layout button and then set a 1-inch margin on all sides of the paper
- Choose the New Time Roman font size 12
- Double-space the document. Simply click the home button and select the line and paragraph spacing option
- The paper title should be centered and should capture the topics you will discuss in the essay. Do not use italics, underline, or bold
- Create headers and page numbers on top of each page. It should contain your last name and the page number. You can set the title and number by double-clicking the header section.
- When it comes to the work cited section, remember to include all the sources you have referred to in your document. List the references in alphabetical order. Each entry should be left-justified
Better yet, download the MLA format template on word and edit it accordingly.
How to Create MLA Format on Google Docs?
- Create a header and title on the first page of the document. It should have your full name, course name, instructors name, and the due date of the assignment
- Proceed to create a title for your paper. The title should be centered and have appropriate capitalization
- Create a running head that includes your last name and the page number. Simply double-click the top of the page to create a running head. Make sure it’s aligned to the right
- When it comes to the work cited page, make sure that it is on its own. Cite all the sources you have used in the paper alphabetically. Never include sources that you did not use in the paper. Please note that you also need to cite your work to avoid self-plagiarism
The paper should be double spaced with a margin of 1 inch on all sides. Alternatively, simply search for the MLA template in the Google Docs template section.
Final Thoughts
There you go, your definitive guide to the MLA format. If you still need professional help, you can count on our experienced exam help specialists to prepare compelling and factual essays. Our specialists are experienced in all formats, including the MLA format. Our goal is to help you ace your studies at fair prices.