MLA Headings and Format Information

The preparation of manuscripts in MLA style is covered in chapter four of the MLA Style Manual, as well as in chapter three of the Handbook for Writing Research Papers. Here are some basic guidelines for formatting a paper in MLA style. For additional help with formatting a document in MLA style, see our additional resources section.

General Guidelines

• Type your paper or write it on a computer and print it out on standard-sized paper (8.5 X 11 inches).
• Double-space your paper.
• Set the margins of your document to 1 inch on all sides.
• Create a header that numbers all pages consecutively in the upper right-hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor or whoever is reading the manuscript may ask that you omit the number on your first page. Always follow their guidelines.)
• Use either underlining or italics throughout your essay for highlighting the titles of longer works and providing emphasis.
• If you have any notes, include them on a page before your works cited page and format them the same way as your works cited list.

Formatting the first page of your paper

• Do not make a title page for your paper unless specifically requested.
• Provide a double-spaced entry in the top left corner of the first page that lists your name, your instructor's name, the course, and the date.
• Create a header that numbers all pages consecutively in the upper right-hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor or whoever is reading the manuscript may ask that you omit the number on your first page. Always follow their guidelines.)
• Center your title on the line below the header with your name, and begin your paper immediately below the title.

Here is a sample first page of an essay in MLA style: