Modern Language

Association (MLA)
MODERN LANGUAGE ASSOCIATION OF
AMERICA
 often referred to as the Modern Language Association, is the principal
professional association in the United States for scholars of language and
literature. The MLA aims to "strengthen the study and teaching of language
and literature". Wikipedia
Purpose: Learned society
Founder: Aaron Marshall Elliott
Founded: 1883
President: Simon Gikandi
Headquarters location: New York, New York, United States
Motto: Scholarship, Teaching, Service
MODERN LANGUAGE ASSOCIATION OF
AMERICA
 is an organization responsible for developing MLA format, often called MLA
style. MLA format was developed as a means for researchers, students, and
scholars in the literature and language fields to use a uniform way to format
their papers and assignments. This uniform, or consistent, method to
developing an MLA paper or assignment allows for easy reading. Today, MLA
is not only used in literature and language subject areas; many others have
adopted it as well.
 released the 8th and most current edition of their Handbook in April 2016.
The Handbook provides thorough instructions on MLA format citing, as well
as guidelines for submitting work that adheres to the Modern Language
Association’s rules and standards. Although we’re not affiliated with the
MLA, our citation specialists bring you this thoughtful and informative guide
on the format.
FORMATTING OVERVIEW
This guide includes the following sections:
1. Paper choice
2. MLA heading format and instructions for developing an MLA format title
page
3. Running Head & Page Numbers
4. Margins
5. Paragraphs
6. Quotations
7. Paraphrases
8. Spacing
9. Font and Font Size
10. Punctuation
FORMATTING OVERVIEW
11. Abbreviations
12. Numbers, including the use of numbers in MLA outline format
13. Images, Tables, and Musical Scores
14. Lists
15. MLA works cited format
16. MLA citation format
17. Binding
18. Edits
19. Submission
20. Sample Paper
1. Paper Choice
 While many professors, instructors, and publications allow electronic
submission, some prefer printed, hard copies of papers. This section focuses
on the type of paper to use for printed submission. If you’re submitting your
assignment electronically, see section 19, titled “Submission.”
 If you choose to print your MLA format paper, use white paper only. Do not
use ivory, off-white, or any other shades or colors.
 Choose a standard, high quality paper to print your project on. Do not use
cardstock. It is not necessary to use resume paper. Use typical, high quality
printer or copy paper.
 When it comes to size, 8 ½-by-11-inch paper is the recommended size. If
you’d like to use a different size, ask your teacher prior to submission
2. MLA Heading Instructions
There are two options when it comes to creating the MLA header for your
project:
1. An MLA format heading can be placed at the top of the first page, or,
2. A title page can grace the front of the assignment. If you choose to create a
title page, keep in mind that there aren’t any official MLA title page or MLA
format cover page guidelines. See more information below.

 If choosing option 1, creating an MLA heading, you’ll need to include four

main components:
Your full name
Your instructor’s name
The name of the course or class
The assignment’s due date
2. MLA Heading Instructions
 The first item typed on the MLA format paper should be your full name.
Position your name one inch from the top and left margins of the page. Add
a double space beneath your name, and type the name of your instructor.
Below the professor, or instructor’s name, should be a double space,
followed by the name of the course, class, or section number (if available).
Below it, include another double space and add the assignment’s due date.

 The assignment’s title should be placed below the due date, after a double
space. Align the title so it sits in the center of the MLA format paper. The title
should be written in standard lettering, without underlines, bold font,
italicized font, or any quotation marks. Only include italics if your title
includes the title of another source.
2. MLA Heading Instructions
Here is an example of an MLA header for an MLA format essay, paper, or assignment:

Neal E. Bibdarsh
Professor Haujeemoto
English 201
2 Nov 2017

The Trials and Tribulations of Lincoln’s Reciting of The Gettysburg Address

 Most research papers use a standard MLA format heading, like the one seen
above. If your instructor requires you to create a standalone title page, ask him or
her for specifications. MLA does not have specific instructions for developing an
MLA title page. We recommend you use an MLA header for your project.
2. MLA Heading Instructions
If your teacher or professor requires a standalone title page, but has not provided any guidance or specifications,
here are a few suggestions from EasyBib.com:
1. Place the title of the assignment in the center of the page. Do not bold the title, italicize the entire title, place
quotation marks around it, or type the title out in capital letters.
2. Use italics for the titles of any sources in the title of your paper. Example: An Analysis of Mythical Creatures in
the Harry Potter Series
3. The title should be written in title case form. Capitalize the:
first letter of the title
first letter of the last word
first letter of any adjectives, adverbs, nouns, pronouns, and verbs
4. Add the same information from the header (your name, the name of your instructor, the name of the course or
class, and the assignment’s due date) and center the information in the middle of the paper below the title.
5. Double space the entire page.
6. Keep the font size at 12 pt., or a size close to it, to make it look professional.
7. Use the same font as the text of the paper. The Modern Language Association recommends any font that is easy
to read and has a clear distinction between italics and standard font. Times New Roman and Arial are
recommended, but many other fonts work as well.
8. Include a page number in the top right corner of the paper. For more information on how to style page
numbers, check out the next section, “Running Head and Page Numbers.”
9. We do not recommend adding any images or cover art to the title page.
3. Running Head & Page Numbers
 A running head is a brief heading that is placed in the top right corner of every page in a project. The
running head consists of the writer’s last name, followed by a space, and then the page number.

 The running head is placed half an inch from the top margin and one inch from the right margin of
the page.
 Do not place the word “page,” or use an abbreviation, such as p. or pg., before the page number.
 General tips to keep in mind:
1. Placed in the upper right-hand corner, one half inch from the top, flush with the right margin.
2. Type your last name before the page number. (To make this process easier, set your word processor
to automatically add the last name and page number to each page).
3. Do not place p. before the page number.
4. Many instructors do not want a page number on the first page. Ask your instructor for their specific
preferences.
3. Running Head & Page Numbers
 Before adding this information manually onto every single page, check to see if
the word processor you’re using has the capability to automatically add this
information for you. Try looking in the settings area where page numbers or
headers can be added or modified.
 Quite often, the running head and page numbers begin on the second page, but
your instructor may ask you to include the running head on the first page of the
assignment. As always, if your instructor provides you with specific directions,
follow his or her guidelines
4. Margins
 Use one-inch margins around the entire page. The running head should be the
only item seen in the one inch margin (see above for more on running heads).
 Most word processing programs automatically default to using one inch
margins. Check the page settings section of the program to locate the margin
size.
5. Paragraphs
 Indent the first word in every paragraph. Sentences should begin one half inch
from the left margin.
 It is not necessary to manually measure half an inch. Use the “tab” button on
the keyboard to create a half inch space.
 Like all other sections of the assignment, paragraphs should be double spaced
 6. Quotations
 Quotes are added into assignments to help defend an argument, prove a point,
add emphasis, or simply liven up a project.
 Quotes should not take up the majority of your paper or assignment. Quotes
should be sprinkled sparingly throughout. Use direct quotes from outside
sources to enhance and expand on your own writing and ideas.
 Words from quotes belong to the individual who spoke or wrote them, so it is
essential to credit that individual’s work. Credit him or her by adding what is
called an “MLA format in text citation” into the body of the project.
There are three ways to add quotes:
1.With the person’s name in the sentence.
Example:
Dan Gutman shares a glimpse into the overall plot by stating, “I didn’t know it at
the time, but a baseball card—for me—could function like a time machine” (5).
 6. Quotations
There are three ways to add quotes:
1.With the person’s name in the sentence.
Example:
Dan Gutman shares a glimpse into the overall plot by stating, “I didn’t know it at the time, but
a baseball card—for me—could function like a time machine” (5).

In the above example, Dan Gutman is the author of the book that this quote is pulled from.
2. Without the person’s name in the sentence
Example:
The main character’s confusing experience is realized and explained when he states “I didn’t
know it at the time, but a baseball card—for me—could function like a time machine”
(Gutman 5).

In the above example, Dan Gutman’s name isn’t included in the sentence. It’s included in the
parentheses at the end of the sentence. This is an example of a proper MLA style citation in
the body of a project.
 6. Quotations
3. In a block quote, which is used when a large quote, of 4 lines or more, is added into a
project.

Using footnotes and endnotes:

 The Modern Language Association generally promotes the use of references as described in the sections above,
but footnotes and endnotes are also acceptable forms of references to use in your paper.
 Footnotes and endnotes are helpful to use in a variety of circumstances. Here are a few scenarios when it may
seem appropriate to use this type of referencing:
 When you are referring to a number of various sources, by various authors, in a section of your paper. In this
situation, it is a good idea to use a footnote or endnote to share information for parenthetical references. This
will encourage the reader to stay focused on the text of the research paper, instead of having to read through all
of the reference information.
 When you are sharing additional information that doesn’t quite fit into the scope of the paper, but is beneficial
for the reader. These types of footnotes and endnotes are helpful when explaining translations, adding
background information, or sharing counterexamples to research.
To include a footnote or endnote, add a superscript number at the end of the sentence the footnote or endnote
refers to. They can be included mid-sentence if necessary, but be sure to add it after any punctuation, such as
commas or periods. Find a location that doesn’t distract the reader from the content and flow of the paper.
 7. Paraphrases
 Paraphrases are created when text or speech from another source are added into a
project, but the writer chooses to summarize them and weave in his or her own writing
and writing style.

 Even though the writer modifies the information from another source, it is still necessary
to credit the source using proper MLA format. Paraphrased information uses the same
MLA reference format as stated in the section directly above this one.

Here is an acceptable paraphrase:

Original text:

“Stay hungry. Stay foolish.” Steve Jobs

Paraphrase:

Steve Jobs encouraged students at Stanford to continue with their determination, drive, and
ambitious behavior. They should never be simply satisfied with the status quo. They should
continue to push themselves despite possible obstacles and failures.
 7. Paraphrases
To develop a well-written paraphrase, follow these simple, step-by-step instructions.
1. Find a phrase, sentence, paragraph, or section of original text you’d like to turn into a paraphrase.
2. Read the text carefully and make sure you fully comprehend its meaning. A writer can only develop a
well-written paraphrase if the information has been fully grasped and understood. If you’re having
difficulty understanding the information, take a few minutes to read up on tricky words and
background information. If all else fails, ask a friend to see if they’re able to make sense of the
concepts.
3. After analyzing and completely understanding the original text, put it to the side. Take a moment to
think about what you’ve read and connect the idea to your own assignment.
4. Now that the information is completely understood, take a moment to rewrite what you’ve read, in
your own words and writing style. Do not simply substitute words in the original text with synonyms.
That’s plagiarism! Show off and demonstrate your ability to process the original information, connect
it to the content in your paper, and write it in your own individual and unique writing style.
5. Include an in-text reference next to the paraphrase. All paraphrases include references, similar to
direct quotes. See section 6 of this guide to learn how to properly attribute your paraphrased
information.
6. Give yourself a pat on the back! Paraphrasing is an important part of the research and writing
process.
 8. Spacing
 MLA research paper format requires that the entire research paper or MLA format essay
includes double-spaced lines. Double-spaced lines should be found in between the written
body of the work, in the heading, and also on the MLA reference page.
 While it may seem tempting to place a few extra lines between the heading, title, and
beginning of the paper, lines should all be double space
 9. Font and Font Size
 In an MLA paper, it is acceptable to use any font type that is easy to read. Many
source types, such as books and articles, use fonts that are easy to read, so if
you’re seeking an appropriate font style, look at other sources for guidance.
Two of the most commonly used fonts are Arial and Times New Roman.
 It is important for the reader to be able to distinguish the difference between
italicized and regular font, so if you choose a font style different than Arial or
Times New Roman, make sure the difference between the two type styles is
evident.
 The use of a 12-point font size is recommended as this is the default size for
many word processing programs. It is acceptable to use another standard size,
such as 11-point or 11.5-point
 9. Font and Font Size
General guidelines:
1. Use white 8 ½ x 11” paper.
2. Make 1 inch margins on the top, bottom, and sides
3. The first word in every paragraph should be indented one half inch.
4. Indent set-off quotations one inch from the left margin
5. Use any type of font that is easy to read, such as Times New Roman. Make sure
that italics look different from the regular typeface.
6. Use 12 point size
7. Double space the entire research paper, even the works cited page.
8. Leave one space after periods and other punctuation marks, unless your
instructor tells you to make two spaces.
9. You can either create a title page using EasyBib’s Title Page creator or omit the
title page completely and use a header.
 9. Font and Font Size
To create a header, follow these steps:
1. Begin one inch from the top of the first page and flush with the left margin.
2. Type your name, your instructor’s name, the course number, and the date on
separate lines, using double spaces between each.
3. Double space once more and center the title. Do NOT underline, bold, or type
the title in all capital letters. Only italicize words that would normally be
italicized in the text. Example: Character Development in The Great Gatsby
4. Do not place a period after the title or after any headings
5. Double space between the title and first lines of the text
9. Font and Font Size
 10. Punctuation
Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind in relation to punctuation marks.

Commas: Use commas when it makes sense for individuals to pause while reading or to help
with understanding.

Concluding Sentences: When closing out a sentence with the use of a punctuation mark, begin
the following sentence after one space, not two spaces.

Quotes: When including a quote in your paper or assignment, place the period outside of the
parentheses, at the end of the entire sentence.

Here is an example of MLA format:

“One good thing about music, when it hits you feel no pain” (Marley).

Notice that the period is on the outside of the parentheses, not at the end of the quote itself.
 11. Abbreviations
 Abbreviations are commonly used in many source types including websites, blog posts,
books, and journal articles. It is acceptable to use abbreviations in all of these sources. When
it comes to school and research assignments however, the Modern Language Association
prefers abbreviations to rarely be used. Spelling out abbreviations into their full words and
meaning is recommended. This ensures understanding and avoids any confusion. Instead of
coming across choppy abbreviations, readers can follow the natural flow of the language in
the paper.
 There are times when you may feel it is perfectly acceptable to use an abbreviation rather
than its typed out counterpart in a paper.
 When including abbreviations, do not place periods in between capital letters.

Examples:
Human Immunodeficiency Virus can be abbreviated to HIV, not H.I.V.
United States should be US, not U.S.
Digital video disc should be DVD, not D.V.D.