How to Format in MLA Style on Microsoft Word
The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is a widely used citation style in the humanities, particularly in literary and cultural studies. Microsoft Word is a popular word processing software used to create documents that require MLA formatting. In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to format your document in MLA style using Microsoft Word.
Step 1: Set the Margins and Indentation
To start with MLA formatting, you need to set the margins and indentation in your document. Follow these steps:
- Go to the "Page Layout" tab in the "Home" section of the Microsoft Word toolbar.
- Click on the arrow next to "Margins" and select "Custom Margins."
- Set the left and right margins to 1 inch, and the top and bottom margins to 1 inch.
- Go back to the "Home" tab and click on the "Paragraph" group.
- Click on the "Paragraph" button and select "Line and Paragraph Spacing."
- Set the "Line spacing" to "Double" and the "Paragraph spacing" to "0.5".
Step 2: Choose the Font and Font Size
For MLA formatting, it’s recommended to use a clear and readable font. We recommend using the following settings:
- Font: Times New Roman
- Font size: 12 points
Step 3: Alignment and Spacing
For proper alignment and spacing in your document, follow these steps:
- Go to the "Home" tab and click on the "Paragraph" group.
- Click on the "Font" button and select "Left" alignment.
- Set the "After" and "Before" spacing to 0 points.
Step 4: Headings and Subheadings
In MLA style, headings and subheadings are important to organize your content. Here’s how to format them:
- Headings: Use your main headings (Level 1) in bold font, using a font size of 14 points.
- Subheadings: Use your subheadings (Level 2) in bold font, using a font size of 12 points.
- Sub-subheadings: Use your sub-subheadings (Level 3) in normal font, using a font size of 12 points.
Step 5: Parenthetical Citations
In MLA style, it’s common to include parenthetical citations at the end of a quotation, indicating the author’s name and page number(s) on which the quote appears. Here’s how to add parenthetical citations:
- (Author’s Last Name Page Number)
- (Smith 23)
Step 6: References Page
The references page is an essential part of MLA formatting. Here’s how to create it:
- Create a new page at the end of your document by going to the "Insert" tab and selecting "Page Break."
- Set the page title as "References" in bold font, using a font size of 14 points.
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Start your references list using the following format:
- Lastname, Firstname. Title of the Source. Journal/Magazine Title, Volume, Issue, Year of Publication: Publisher, Page Range.
Additional Tips and Reminders
- Use a consistent citation style throughout your document.
- Use credits for illustrations, tables, and figures.
- Use footnotes or endnotes for additional information.
- Use clear and concise headings and subheadings to organize your content.
- Check for consistency in font, spacing, and formatting throughout your document.
Table of Content: MLA Formatting in Microsoft Word
| Section | Description | Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Margins and Indentation | Set margins and indentation in your document | 1 |
| Font and Font Size | Choose a clear and readable font | 2 |
| Alignment and Spacing | Set alignment and spacing for proper formatting | 3 |
| Headings and Subheadings | Format headings and subheadings | 4 |
| Parenthetical Citations | Add parenthetical citations for sources | 5 |
| References Page | Create a references page | 6 |
By following these steps, you can effectively format your document in MLA style using Microsoft Word. Remember to check for consistency in font, spacing, and formatting throughout your document. Happy typing!