how to write a term paper mla style

how to write a term paper mla style

Writing a term paper in MLA style within a 1000-word limit involves adhering to specific formatting and citation guidelines. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose a Specific Topic: Select a focused topic that allows you to explore key points deeply within the word limit.
2. Conduct Research: Gather information from reputable sources such as books, scholarly articles, and academic databases. Take notes on key points, quotes, and evidence that support your thesis.
3. Create an Outline (100 words):
   • Introduction (100 words): Introduce the topic, provide context, and present your thesis statement.
   • Body (600 words): Divide into sections based on key points with supporting evidence.
   • Conclusion (100 words): Summarize your main arguments and restate your thesis.
4. Thesis Statement (50 words): Craft a clear thesis statement that reflects the main argument of your paper.
5. Title Page:
   • Include your name, instructor’s name, course name/number, and submission date aligned to the center of the page.
6. In-text Citations (150 words):
   • Cite sources within the text using author’s last name and page number in parentheses (Author Page).
   • For sources with no author, use the title of the work (Shortened Title Page).
7. Introduction (100 words):
   • Start with a hook to capture the reader’s attention.
   • Provide background information and context for your topic.
   • Present your thesis statement at the end of the introduction.
8. Body Paragraphs (600 words): Each paragraph should follow this structure:
   • Topic Sentence (20 words): Introduce the main point of the paragraph.
   • Explanation (70 words): Provide context and detail about the point.
   • Evidence (150 words): Present a quote or paraphrase from a source.
   • Citation (20 words): Provide the in-text citation for the source.
   • Analysis (150 words): Analyze the evidence and connect it to your thesis.
   • Transition (20 words): Connect the current point to the next.
9. Conclusion (100 words):
   • Summarize the main points you’ve discussed in the paper.
   • Restate your thesis in a different way.
   • Offer a final thought or implication related to your topic.
10. Works Cited Page (100 words):
    • List all the sources you’ve cited alphabetically by the author’s last name.
    • Follow the MLA format for each source: Author, Title, Publisher, Year.
11. Proofreading and Editing (50 words):
    • Review your paper for clarity, coherence, grammar, and spelling errors.
    • Ensure your paper adheres to MLA formatting guidelines.
12. Formatting and Presentation (50 words):
    • Set the font to Times New Roman, 12-point.
    • Double-space the entire paper, including the Works Cited page.
    • Use 1-inch margins on all sides.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to write a concise and well-structured term paper in MLA style while effectively integrating citations and adhering to the formatting guidelines.