How to Format an Essay using MLA

You’ve been assigned an essay or research paper and you’ve worked hard on it. You want a good grade. Unfortunately, your grade doesn’t depend only on the content of what you write. The difference between an "A" and a "B" can be something as small as a mistake in your formatting. The following steps clearly lay out the correct MLA format for essays and research papers to help ensure that you get the grade your deserve.

Things You'll Need

• Computer

Instructions

1. Use a 12 point font and a normal typeface such as Times Roman. Using an exotic typeface is a guaranteed way to get a lower grade.

2. Set your margins to one inch at the top, bottom, left and right sides of the page.

3. Indent the first word of every paragraph five spaces. For block quotes, indent ten spaces.

4. Place, in the order noted, in the top left of your paper, up against the margin: name, Professor [last name], department and course number, and date, one right below the other. The date should be given as day, month, year. For example, 4 July 1776. Double-space between each.

5. Double-space again and center the title of your paper in regular font. Do not use italics, bold or all caps in your title. Only use underlining if your title features words that you would underline in the essay itself, such as a title of a book or film.

6. Double-space throughout your essay. Only use one space after a period unless you’re told otherwise by your instructor

7. Be aware that page numbers should be in the top right-hand corner, preceded by your last name.

Tips & Warnings

• Always check with your teachers to see if they have any personal preferences when it comes to formatting.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish