how to put an essay in mla format

how to put an essay in mla format

To write a 1000-word essay in MLA format, you’ll need to follow the MLA guidelines for formatting, citations, and references. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Page Formatting:

• Use standard white 8.5 x 11-inch paper.
• Set 1-inch margins on all sides.
• Use a legible 12-point font, such as Times New Roman.
• Double-space the entire essay, including the title, headings, and references.
• Indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5 inches (or one tab key press).

2. Title Page (Optional):

• In MLA format, a separate title page is generally not required. Place your name, instructor’s name, course, and date in the upper left corner of the first page (no title page).
• Include a centered title on the first page of the essay. Capitalize major words and avoid italics or bold font.

3. Page Header (In the upper right corner):

• Include your last name and page number. Use the automatic page numbering feature in your word processor.

4. Essay Structure:

• Organize your essay into an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

5. In-Text Citations:

• Use parenthetical citations (author’s last name and page number) for all direct quotations and paraphrased information.
• Place the citation at the end of the sentence before the period.
• Example: (Smith 45).

6. Works Cited Page:

• At the end of your essay, include a Works Cited page.
• List all sources you cited in your essay in alphabetical order by the author’s last name.
• Follow the specific MLA format for citing different types of sources (books, articles, websites, etc.).

7. Spelling and Grammar:

• Carefully proofread your essay for spelling and grammar errors.
• Use proper capitalization, punctuation, and sentence structure.

8. Headings:

• Use section headings to organize your essay if necessary.
• MLA style allows for different levels of headings (e.g., Level 1, Level 2).

9. Word Count:

• Keep track of your word count to ensure you reach the 1000-word requirement.

10. Quotes and Quotations:

• When using quotes, introduce them with a signal phrase and properly cite the source.
• Enclose shorter quotes (fewer than 4 lines) within double quotation marks.
• Use block quotes for longer quotes (more than 4 lines) by indenting them and omitting quotation marks.

11. Conclusion:

• Summarize your main points and restate your thesis in the conclusion.

12. Proofread:

• Before finalizing your essay, thoroughly proofread it to eliminate errors and improve clarity.

13. Title:

• Center your essay’s title and capitalize major words. Do not underline or italicize the title.

14. Page Numbers:

• Begin your essay’s page numbering with the first page of text (the introduction) rather than the title page (if you have one).

By following these guidelines, you can write a well-structured 1000-word essay in MLA format that adheres to the standard formatting and citation style required for MLA essays.