The Modern Language Association (MLA) research paper format is widely used in the humanities, such as literature, language, and cultural studies. This format is preferred by many scholars and researchers due to its simplicity and clarity. In this article, we will delve into the world of MLA research paper formatting, providing expert assistance and guidance on how to create a well-structured and visually appealing paper.
Introduction to MLA Research Paper Format
The MLA format is designed to be easy to read and understand, with a focus on the content of the paper rather than the formatting itself. The format includes guidelines for margins, font, line spacing, headings, and citations. By following these guidelines, researchers can ensure that their paper is presented in a clear and consistent manner, making it easier for readers to follow their argument and understand their research.
Setting Up the Page
To set up an MLA research paper, start by setting the margins to 1 inch on all sides (top, bottom, left, and right). The font should be a legible 12-point font, such as Times New Roman or Arial. The line spacing should be double-spaced, with no extra space between paragraphs. The header should include the last name and page number, placed in the upper-right corner of each page.
| MLA Format Guidelines | Description |
|---|---|
| Margins | 1 inch on all sides |
| Font | 12-point legible font (e.g., Times New Roman or Arial) |
| Line Spacing | Double-spaced, with no extra space between paragraphs |
| Header | Last name and page number in the upper-right corner of each page |
Citations and References
Citations and references are an essential part of any research paper, and the MLA format has specific guidelines for citing sources. In-text citations should include the author’s last name and page number(s) in parentheses, separated by a space. For example: (Smith 24). If the source has no author, the title should be used in the citation. The Works Cited page should include a list of all sources cited in the paper, formatted according to MLA guidelines.
In-Text Citations
In-text citations should be used to acknowledge the source of a quote, idea, or piece of information. The citation should include the author’s last name and page number(s) in parentheses, separated by a space. For example: (Smith 24). If the source has no author, the title should be used in the citation. If the source has multiple authors, the authors’ names should be separated by commas. For example: (Smith, Johnson, and Williams 24).
| In-Text Citation Guidelines | Description |
|---|---|
| Author's Last Name | Included in the citation, in parentheses |
| Page Number(s) | Included in the citation, in parentheses, separated by a space |
| No Author | Title used in the citation, in parentheses |
| Multiple Authors | Authors' names separated by commas, in parentheses |
Works Cited Page
The Works Cited page is a list of all sources cited in the paper, formatted according to MLA guidelines. The page should be titled “Works Cited” and centered at the top of the page. The sources should be listed in alphabetical order by author’s last name, with the first line of each entry flush with the left margin and subsequent lines indented 0.5 inches. Each entry should include the author’s name, title of the source, publication date, and publication information.
Formatting the Works Cited Page
To format the Works Cited page, start by titling the page “Works Cited” and centering it at the top of the page. The sources should be listed in alphabetical order by author’s last name, with the first line of each entry flush with the left margin and subsequent lines indented 0.5 inches. Each entry should include the author’s name, title of the source, publication date, and publication information.
| Works Cited Page Guidelines | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | "Works Cited" centered at the top of the page |
| Source List | Sources listed in alphabetical order by author's last name |
| Entry Format | Author's name, title of the source, publication date, and publication information |
| Indentation | First line of each entry flush with the left margin, subsequent lines indented 0.5 inches |
What is the purpose of the MLA format?
+The MLA format is designed to provide a clear and consistent way of formatting research papers, making it easier for readers to follow the argument and understand the research.
How do I cite a source with no author in MLA format?
+In MLA format, if a source has no author, the title should be used in the citation, in parentheses. For example: (“The Great Gatsby” 24).
What is the difference between a Works Cited page and a bibliography?
+A Works Cited page is a list of all sources cited in the paper, while a bibliography is a list of all sources consulted during the research process, whether or not they are cited in the paper.
