Master MLA Style in 2023

Master MLA Style in 2023

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Setting up Margins
3. Choosing the Font
4. Setting up Double Spacing
5. Adding Author's Name, Instructor's Name, and Course Details
6. Formatting the Date
7. Adding the Header
8. Including Page Numbers
9. Title Formatting
10. Paragraph Indentation

Article: How to Set Up a Paper in MLA Formatting

Introduction: MLA (Modern Language Association) formatting is commonly used for academic papers, particularly in the field of humanities. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of setting up a paper in MLA format using Microsoft Word. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your paper is formatted correctly and meets the requirements of MLA style.

1. Setting up Margins: The first step in setting up your paper in MLA format is to adjust the margins. To do this, go to the "Layout" tab in Microsoft Word and click on "Margins." Select the "Normal" option, which ensures that the margins are set to one inch on all sides. This uniform margin spacing is essential for MLA formatting.

2. Choosing the Font: MLA formatting requires that all text in the paper be written in Times New Roman, size 12. You can easily select this font by clicking on the font dropdown menu at the top of the screen and choosing "Times New Roman." Additionally, make sure that the font size is set to 12.

3. Setting up Double Spacing: MLA format dictates that the entire paper, including the text, should be double-spaced. To ensure double spacing, go to the "Paragraph" settings by clicking on the small button labeled "Paragraph" in the "Home" tab. In the "Line Spacing" dropdown menu, select "Double." Importantly, make sure to check the box that says "Don't add space between paragraphs of the same style," as MLA formatting excludes any extra space between paragraphs.

4. Adding Author's Name, Instructor's Name, and Course Details: In MLA format, it is customary to include the author's name, instructor's name, and course details at the beginning of the paper. Type your name, followed by a comma, and then the instructor's name. Add the course information, including the course name and section number. Including the section number is especially important when your instructor teaches multiple sections of the same course.

5. Formatting the Date: MLA format has a specific way of formatting dates. Rather than following the traditional format of month/day/year, MLA format uses day/month/year. Ensure that you adhere to this format while typing the date in your paper. Remember, there should be no commas between the day, month, and year.

6. Adding the Header: The header in MLA format contains the page numbers and the last name of the author. Double-click at the top of the page to open the header section. Check that the options for "Different First Page" and "Different Odd & Even Pages" are unchecked, as this ensures consistency throughout the paper. In the header section, insert the page number aligned to the left margin. Following the page number, type your last name, which should align with the right margin.

7. Including Page Numbers: Page numbers are a crucial element of MLA formatting. They should be positioned in the header and appear on every page of the paper except the first page. To add page numbers, go to the "Insert" tab and click on "Page Number." Choose the option to place the page number at the top of the page, aligned to the left margin.

8. Title Formatting: The title of your paper should be centered and not formatted with bold, underline, or quotation marks. Capitalize all words in the title except for articles and short prepositions. Ensure that the title is double-spaced from the rest of the text.

9. Paragraph Indentation: In MLA format, the first line of each paragraph should be indented. To achieve this, use the "Tab" key on your keyboard to indent the first line of each paragraph. This indentation distinguishes the beginning of each paragraph and improves readability.

In conclusion, setting up a paper in MLA formatting requires attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your paper meets the requirements of MLA format and presents your content in a professional manner.

Highlights:

1. Learn how to set up a paper in MLA formatting using Microsoft Word.
2. Understand the importance of margin settings and font selection.
3. Ensure your paper is double-spaced and follows the correct line spacing format.
4. Include your name, instructor's name, course details, and date in the appropriate format.
5. Create a header with page numbers and your last name.
6. Properly format the title of your paper.
7. Indent the first line of each paragraph for improved readability.

FAQ:

Q: Why is MLA formatting important? A: MLA formatting is important in academic writing as it ensures consistency, professionalism, and ease of reading.

Q: Can I use a different font in MLA formatting? A: No, MLA formatting requires the use of Times New Roman, size 12 font throughout the paper.

Q: Is it necessary to include page numbers in MLA formatting? A: Yes, page numbers are necessary in MLA formatting, except on the first page.

Q: How should the title be formatted in MLA? A: The title should be centered and not formatted with bold, underline, or quotation marks.