MLA Format

What is MLA Format?

The MLA format is a style of writing that requires a specific layout. The Modern Language Association (MLA) publishes a style manual used primarily by scholars in literature and the humanities. The most recent edition is MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 6th Edition, by Joseph Gibaldi, Modern Language Association of America, 2003.

Paper: White, twenty-pound, 81/2- by 11-inch paper.

Font: Times New Roman or Courier 12 point font.

Margins: One-inch margins all around the text of your paper -- left side, right side, and top and bottom. Paragraphs should be indented half an inch; block quotations should be indented one inch from the left margin.

Spacing: Double-spaced, including quotations, notes, and the list of works cited.

Heading and Title: On the first page, at the left-hand margin, type your name, your instructor's name, the course name and number, and the date -- all on separate, double-spaced lines. Then double-space and center the title above your text. (If your title requires more than one line, double-space between the lines.) After the title, double-space before beginning your text. The title should be neither underlined nor written in all capital letters. Capitalize only the first, last, and principal words of the title. Titles might end with a question mark or an exclamation mark if that is appropriate, but not in a period. No title page is required for MLA format unless specified by your instructor.

Page Numbers: Upper right-hand corner of each page, one-half inch from the top. Type your last name before the page number. Most word processing programs provide for a "header," which you can set up as you create the format for the paper, at the same time you are establishing specifications such as the one-inch margins and the double-spacing. Do not use the abbreviation "p." or any other mark before the page number.

Tables and Figures: Label "Table" with an Arabic numeral and caption (with those words flush to the left-hand margin). Other material such as photographs, images, charts, and line-drawings should be labeled "Figure" and be properly numbered and captioned.

Binders: Generally, the simpler the better. A simple staple in the upper left-hand corner of your paper should suffice. Your instructors may have their own rules about binders, and you should consult with them about this matter.

Note: Recommendations here are based on the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. It is important to note, however, that individual instructor’s specifications may vary from these recommendations somewhat and that it is always wise to consult with your instructor before formatting and submitting your work.