MLA format, or Modern Language Association format, is a style guide commonly used in the humanities, particularly in writing on language and literature. It provides guidelines for formatting papers, citing sources, and creating a Works Cited page. Here are some key elements of MLA format:
General Formatting:
- Font and Size: Use a readable font like Times New Roman, 12pt size.
- Margins: Set 1-inch margins on all sides.
- Line Spacing: Double-space the entire paper, including the Works Cited page.
- Paragraph Indentation: The first line of each paragraph should be indented by 0.5 inches.
- Header: Include a header with your last name and page number in the upper right corner.
First Page Format:
- Heading: Include your name, your instructor's name, the course name, and the date, all in the upper left corner, double-spaced.
- Title: Center the title of your paper (do not underline, italicize, or place it in quotation marks).
- Content: Start the first paragraph of your paper after your title.
In-Text Citations:
When you quote or paraphrase a source, include the author's last name and the page number in parentheses. For example: (Smith 123).
Works Cited Page:
At the end of your paper, include a Works Cited page that lists all the sources you referenced. The page should:
- Be titled "Works Cited," centered at the top.
- Be double-spaced with no extra spaces between entries.
- Use a hanging indent for each entry (the first line is flush left, and subsequent lines are indented 0.5 inches).
Sample Works Cited Entry:
For a book:
Smith, John. *Title of the Book*. Publisher, Year of Publication.
For an article:
Doe, Jane. "Title of the Article." *Title of the Journal*, vol. 1, no. 2, 2020, pp. 34-56.
For a website:
Johnson, Emily. "Title of the Webpage." *Website Name*, Day Month Year of publication, URL.
Following these guidelines will ensure that you are writing in proper MLA format. For more detailed information, you can consult the "MLA Handbook" or the MLA's official website.