How to mla format on google docs

Overview

MLA (Modern Language Association) format is widely used in the humanities, particularly in English and other language studies. It provides a standardized way to cite sources and structure academic papers. While Google Docs is a flexible word processor, it doesn't come with pre-built templates for every citation style like MLA. However, setting up your document to conform to MLA guidelines is straightforward with a few adjustments.

Setting Up Your Document for MLA Formatting

Margins

The first step in MLA formatting is to ensure your margins are set correctly. According to the MLA Handbook, all margins (top, bottom, left, and right) should be set to 1 inch. In Google Docs, you can adjust this by going to File > Page setup. Under the 'Margins' section, set all four values to 1 inch.

Font and Font Size

MLA style recommends using a standard, easily readable font in a regular (not bold) style. Common choices include Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, or Georgia. The font size should be 12-point. To set this in Google Docs, select all your text (Ctrl+A or Cmd+A) and then choose your desired font and size from the toolbar.

Line Spacing

The entire document, including block quotes and the Works Cited page, should be double-spaced. This means there should be no extra space between paragraphs. In Google Docs, with your text selected, go to Format > Line & paragraph spacing > Double.

Header and Page Numbers

MLA format requires a header that includes your last name followed by the page number. This header should appear on every page of your document, starting with the first page. To create this in Google Docs:

1. Go to Insert > Headers & footers > Header.
2. In the header area, type your last name.
3. Press the spacebar once.
4. Go to Insert > Page numbers and select the option that places page numbers in the header, starting from the first page. Ensure it's set to 'Top of document'.
5. Click anywhere outside the header to close it.

You may need to adjust the font and size of the header text to match the body of your paper (usually 12-point Times New Roman).

Title and Identifying Information

The first page of your paper should include your name, your instructor's name, the course name, and the date (day month year format), all double-spaced and left-aligned. Below this information, center your paper's title. Do not bold, underline, or italicize the title, unless it contains titles of works that require such formatting.

Paragraph Indentation

Each paragraph should begin with a first-line indent. In Google Docs, you can set this up by going to Format > Align & indent > Indentation options. Under 'Special indent,' select 'First line' and ensure the measurement is set to 0.5 inches.

Creating the Works Cited Page

The Works Cited page is a separate page at the end of your document listing all the sources you cited in your paper. It should follow these MLA guidelines:

Formatting the Works Cited Page

1. Start on a New Page: Ensure the Works Cited page begins on a new page.
2. Title: Center the title 'Works Cited' at the top of the page. Do not bold, underline, or italicize it.
3. Alphabetical Order: List your sources alphabetically by the author's last name. If a source has no author, alphabetize by the title (ignoring 'A', 'An', and 'The').
4. Double Spacing: The entire Works Cited page must be double-spaced, with no extra space between entries.
5. Hanging Indent: Each entry should have a hanging indent. This means the first line of each citation is flush left, and subsequent lines are indented 0.5 inches. In Google Docs, you can set this up in Format > Align & indent > Indentation options. Under 'Special indent,' select 'Hanging' and ensure the measurement is 0.5 inches.

Citing Sources

The specific format for each citation depends on the type of source (book, journal article, website, etc.). Always consult the latest edition of the MLA Handbook or reliable online guides for the most accurate citation formats. Key elements usually include author, title, publisher, publication date, and location information (like URLs or page numbers).

Common MLA Formatting Pitfalls to Avoid

• Forgetting to double-space the entire document, including the Works Cited page.
• Incorrectly formatting the header with last name and page number.
• Not alphabetizing entries on the Works Cited page correctly.
• Using incorrect indentation for paragraphs or the Works Cited entries.
• Failing to include all necessary information for each source in the Works Cited list.

By following these steps, you can effectively format your essays and research papers according to MLA guidelines directly within Google Docs, ensuring a professional and compliant presentation of your work.