Tip: this guide follows standard MLA formatting rules according to the widely-used Purdue OWL guidelines. It is strongly recommended that you clarify the formatting requirements with your instructor, publisher, department, etc.
MLA Format at a Glance
The easiest way to interpret MLA format, short for Modern Language Association format, is to think of it as a style guide for research and academic papers. Much like the way social media templates or distinct company branding can bring uniformity to content, the goal of MLA format is to optimize written works for maximum readability and optimal reference. Listed here are the key aspects of MLA format that you will need to remember:
One-inch margins on all sides Times New Roman font (12 pt.) Double-spaced body text Centered title text Left-aligned name, instructor name, and due date at the top of the first page Indent the first word of every paragraph by half inch Indent block quotes by one inch Llast name and page number aligned to the top-right corner of every page Separate Works Cited page using hanging indentation
Tip: this guide covers MLA formatting instructions for tools that are accessible via the Google Docs website and not the Google Docs app. Accessing Google Docs via the Web enables more versatile and straightforward formatting options that will save you considerable time.
1. One-Inch Margins
Before you start typing in Google Docs, you will need to make sure to toggle one-inch margins for the bottom, top, left, and right sides of your paper. Follow these steps to get started: Tip: would you prefer to handwrite your text first? Read on to learn how to convert your handwriting to typed text on Android.
2. Times New Roman
Technically, MLA format only requires that you use a “legible” font, which debunks the myth that Times New Roman is the only font allowed in MLA format. Nonetheless, Times New Roman remains a popular choice for writers, as it is a serif typeface. Studies show that using serif-clad typefaces, aka typefaces with small lines or strokes attached to the ends of each character, can optimize long passages of text for optimum readability. Follow these steps to get started: Tip: learn how to add a text box in Google Docs.
3. Doubled-Spaced
MLA format requires that all of your body text be double-spaced. If the idea of tediously jamming away at the space bar enough times to send your thumbs into a spasm has you dreading your next term paper, rest assured that you can automatically double-space your text in just a few clicks with Google Docs, as you will see in the below instructions.
4. Additional MLA Format Requirements
Once you have added headers and a title, writing your next essay will feel like clockwork. Documents written in MLA format must include your last name printed before each page number in the top-right corner of every page. You can have Google Docs number and initial each page for you. Follow the instructions below to add your surname and page numbers, as well as other requirements. Tip: note that some instructors will ask you to write the due date of the assignment and not the date it was assigned in your header. Good to know: learn how to improve your writing with OneLook.
5. Works Cited
Before you wrap up your document, a crucial element of the MLA format is a separate Works Cited page that displays the sources that you referenced throughout your essay. In addition to listing your sources in alphabetical order, the Purdue OWL guide for MLA Works Cited Page: Basic Format describes how each citation should be formatted based on origin, source, and media type. Follow these general rules: Image credit: Unsplash. All screenshots taken by Brahm Shank.
