Students who want to write a paper that will make their instructors happy will obviously want to follow their instructors' guidelines. But students can be one step ahead simply by writing their papers in MLA format. Here are some ideas about how to format one's essay according to Modern Language Association guidelines.
Font Style and Size is Important
Type chosen for an MLA paper should be a standard font, such as Times New Roman, Arial, Verdana, etc. Avoid fancy or decorative fonts. Instructors who have had to read thirty essays at once can explain why - it’s hard on the eyes. Students can help their instructors be happy and relaxed when grading their papers by choosing a standard font.
The size of the font should be 12. Again, it makes for easier reading. Size 12 can be read by almost anyone.
Spacing and Other Features
Next, double spacing is a must. This rule was also created to make for ease in reading but also to allow instructors (or fellow students, in the case of peer reviews) space to write comments and suggestions. It’s also best to avoid using bold anywhere in a paper. Even when a student types a title at the top of the page (which should be centered) or the necessary heading on a Works Cited page, it’s best to avoid using the bold feature (or underlining, etc.). Bold can be used for headings.
In fact, the only time a student should underline or use italics is when he is writing out a source that needs that sort of identification; for example, if a student were writing about Fight Club or The Old Man and the Sea, he would either underline or italicize it so his readers know it’s a movie or book or other source of that nature. This sort of font change is actually part of the rules too. On rare occasion, writers can use italics for emphasis, but they should be careful not to overdo it.
Margins and Paragraphs
Margins are also important. Many word processing programs on a student's computer will not have the margins set properly; a student is expected to have one-inch margins on all sides. Students should also make sure their paragraphs begin with an indented space, using the tab key on their keyboard. A one-half inch indentation is standard.
Identification and Page Numbering
Finally, students also need to properly identify their papers. In the upper left hand corner on the first page only, a student should enter the following information in this order:
- Student name, first and last
- Instructor Name
- Course name (for example, English 101)
- Date in Day, Month, Year format (for example, 2 November 2009)
Those four lines are expected and proper MLA format.
In the header section of one's paper, a student needs to list her last name and insert the page number. Most word processing programs have the ability to do this procedure fairly simply.
Following These Guidelines Will Ensure Formatting Success
Obviously, if students have any other questions about formatting their papers, they should be sure to address these with their instructors, but these simple guidelines should get students on the “write” track!
Related article:
MLA-Format Works Cited Pages-Writers' Resources
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