<\/p>\n
Are you planning a research career in literature, language studies, art history, etc.? Get familiar with the requirements of the\u00a0Modern Language Association (MLA) style guide\u00a0[1], because\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0one of the most\u00a0popular style\u00a0guides in these fields.\u00a0You\u2019ll\u00a0especially need a good working knowledge of MLA citation style.<\/p>\n
<\/a>What is MLA Format?<\/h2>\nThe MLA style guide\u00a0includes a set of\u00a0<\/strong>rules for formatting\u00a0research\u00a0papers\u00a0a\u00a0certain way, specifically in the Humanities field,\u00a0to\u00a0maintain\u00a0uniformity in presentation.\u00a0The 9th\u00a0edition of the MLA style guide,\u00a0introduced in 2021,\u00a0outlines detailed\u00a0instructions\u00a0for authors on formatting\u00a0headers, citations, references, tables, and figures, among other elements of a research paper.<\/p>\n<\/a>Downloadable Free MLA template and sample paper<\/h2>\nIf you\u2019re brand new to MLA formatting, use this handy MLA_Template<\/a> to get your basics right. Here’s what’s pre-formatted inside it:<\/p>\nPage setup<\/h3>\n\n- US Letter, 1-inch margins on all sides<\/li>\n
- Times New Roman 12pt throughout<\/li>\n
- Double-spacing everywhere (including the Works Cited page)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
First page<\/h3>\n\n- Header block (top-left): placeholders for your name, instructor’s name, course, and date in MLA date format<\/li>\n
- Centered title placeholder below the header block<\/li>\n
- Running head in the top-right corner on every page: [Last Name] #<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Body<\/h3>\n\n- Three body paragraphs with 0.5-inch first-line indent<\/li>\n
- A block quotation example showing the correct left-indent (0.5″), no quotation marks, and citation placement after<\/em> the period<\/li>\n
- Short quote examples with parenthetical citations in the correct position<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Works Cited page<\/h3>\n\n- Starts on its own page with a centered “Works Cited” heading<\/li>\n
- Four pre-formatted entry templates (book, journal article, website, video) all with the correct 0.5-inch hanging indent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Just replace each [placeholder]<\/strong> with your own content and you’re good to go.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to make an MLA Header and Title Page?<\/h2>\nThere is no need for a separate title page in MLA.\u00a0The main paper typically starts with an MLA header which also\u00a0contains\u00a0the title of the\u00a0paper.<\/p>\n
The header starts with four\u00a0important\u00a0details:<\/p>\n
\n- your\u00a0full\u00a0name<\/li>\n
- the name of your supervisor\u00a0or instructor<\/li>\n
- the course name<\/li>\n
- the date of submission<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
All these details must be left aligned\u00a0and\u00a0written on separate lines\u00a0on the header\u00a0page.\u00a0Do not forget to include a running head at the top right-hand side corner,\u00a0which\u00a0contains\u00a0your surname and the page number.<\/p>\n
The title should be centered\u00a0below the line\u00a0indicating\u00a0the due date for the\u00a0assignment\u00a0submission.\u00a0Some supervisors might instruct you to create a separate title page;\u00a0in such cases,\u00a0follow the guidelines outlined\u00a0by them.<\/p>\n
How do I format MLA headings and subheadings?<\/h3>\n
In the MLA format, headings should be written in title case and left-aligned with the page margin. The font and size can be the same as that of the main text, but don\u2019t add a period after the heading.<\/p>\n
The guidelines are not that strict for headings and subheadings\u00a0in MLA,\u00a0so you\u00a0may\u00a0use boldface for the main headings and italicize the subheadings to differentiate between the two.\u00a0The key requirement is that\u00a0you\u00a0remain\u00a0consistent\u00a0when writing\u00a0headings\u00a0at all levels.\u00a0For example,\u00a0all level 1 headings\u00a0must be in the same font, size,\u00a0and\u00a0style\u00a0and the same must be\u00a0maintained\u00a0for the\u00a0subsequent\u00a0heading levels\u00a0(level 2, level 3, etc.)\u00a0as well.<\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format short quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nA short quotation in MLA is any prose passage of four lines or fewer (or two lines or fewer of poetry). These are integrated directly into your text, enclosed in quotation marks.<\/p>\n
Rules:<\/h3>\n\n- Keep the quote within your paragraph \u2014 no new line or indent<\/li>\n
- Enclose in double quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation before<\/strong> the closing period (opposite of block quotes)<\/li>\n
- Integrate grammatically into your sentence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Examples:<\/h3>\n
Narrative citation (author named in sentence):<\/em><\/p>\nOrwell argues that political language is designed to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Parenthetical citation (author not named):<\/em><\/p>\nPolitical prose, one critic observes, exists to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (Orwell 136).<\/p>\n
Altered quotation<\/em> \u2014 use brackets for changes, ellipses for omissions:<\/p>\nOrwell warns that language can “make […] murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Poetry of two lines or fewer:<\/strong> separate lines with a forward slash and a space on each side.<\/p>\nFrost opens with a deceptively simple image: “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, \/ And sorry I could not travel both” (1\u20132).<\/p>\n
Key rule:<\/strong> The period always falls after<\/em> the closing parenthesis, not before it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format block quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, any prose quotation of more than four lines<\/strong> (or more than three lines of poetry) must be formatted as a block quotation.<\/p>\nRules:<\/h3>\n\n- Start the quotation on a new line<\/li>\n
- Indent the entire quote 0.5 inches from the left margin (no additional right indent)<\/li>\n
- Maintain double spacing throughout<\/li>\n
- Omit quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation after<\/strong> the closing period (unlike short quotes, where the citation comes before the period)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Prose example:<\/h3>\n
Discussing the nature of grief, Didion reflects on the physical dimension of loss:<\/p>\n![\"Block](\"https:\/\/www.editage.com\/insights\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Block-quote-in-prose-MLA-style-300x59.jpg\")
Example of a block quotation in prose (MLA style)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPoetry example<\/strong> (three or more lines): preserve the original line breaks and indent the same way.<\/p>\n![\"Block](\"https:\/\/www.editage.com\/insights\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Block-quote-of-poetry-MLA-style-300x127.jpg\")
Example of a block quote of poetry in MLA style<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nKey distinction from short quotes:<\/strong> The block format itself signals to the reader that the material is quoted, so quotation marks are dropped entirely.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format in-text citations in MLA style?<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, the in-text citation<\/a> should include the author\u2019s surname (or last name) and page number in parentheses. The purpose is simply to direct the readers to the Works Cited list and the\u00a0locator,\u00a0i.e.,\u00a0the page number,\u00a0in the\u00a0cited\u00a0source.<\/p>\nThe citation style varies depending on the number of authors for\u00a0a work.<\/p>\n
\n- For a single author,\u00a0the author\u2019s surname and page number should be\u00a0mentioned<\/li>\n
- For\u00a0two authors,\u00a0specify the\u00a0last\u00a0names of both authors\u00a0separated by \u201cand\u201d\u00a0and\u00a0then\u00a0include the page number<\/li>\n
- For three or more authors,\u00a0mention the first author\u2019s last name followed by\u00a0\u201cet al.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
When it comes to page numbers in MLA format, you need to provide the specific page number\u00a0or a page range\u00a0based on the information you are citing.\u00a0Also, if you want to cite two non-consecutive page numbers from the same source,\u00a0both page numbers\u00a0should be specified and\u00a0separated by a comma.\u00a0Basically, the\u00a0purpose is to let readers know\u00a0exactly\u00a0what details you have covered from the source.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/a>Downloadable Free MLA template and sample paper<\/h2>\nIf you\u2019re brand new to MLA formatting, use this handy MLA_Template<\/a> to get your basics right. Here’s what’s pre-formatted inside it:<\/p>\nPage setup<\/h3>\n\n- US Letter, 1-inch margins on all sides<\/li>\n
- Times New Roman 12pt throughout<\/li>\n
- Double-spacing everywhere (including the Works Cited page)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
First page<\/h3>\n\n- Header block (top-left): placeholders for your name, instructor’s name, course, and date in MLA date format<\/li>\n
- Centered title placeholder below the header block<\/li>\n
- Running head in the top-right corner on every page: [Last Name] #<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Body<\/h3>\n\n- Three body paragraphs with 0.5-inch first-line indent<\/li>\n
- A block quotation example showing the correct left-indent (0.5″), no quotation marks, and citation placement after<\/em> the period<\/li>\n
- Short quote examples with parenthetical citations in the correct position<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Works Cited page<\/h3>\n\n- Starts on its own page with a centered “Works Cited” heading<\/li>\n
- Four pre-formatted entry templates (book, journal article, website, video) all with the correct 0.5-inch hanging indent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Just replace each [placeholder]<\/strong> with your own content and you’re good to go.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to make an MLA Header and Title Page?<\/h2>\nThere is no need for a separate title page in MLA.\u00a0The main paper typically starts with an MLA header which also\u00a0contains\u00a0the title of the\u00a0paper.<\/p>\n
The header starts with four\u00a0important\u00a0details:<\/p>\n
\n- your\u00a0full\u00a0name<\/li>\n
- the name of your supervisor\u00a0or instructor<\/li>\n
- the course name<\/li>\n
- the date of submission<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
All these details must be left aligned\u00a0and\u00a0written on separate lines\u00a0on the header\u00a0page.\u00a0Do not forget to include a running head at the top right-hand side corner,\u00a0which\u00a0contains\u00a0your surname and the page number.<\/p>\n
The title should be centered\u00a0below the line\u00a0indicating\u00a0the due date for the\u00a0assignment\u00a0submission.\u00a0Some supervisors might instruct you to create a separate title page;\u00a0in such cases,\u00a0follow the guidelines outlined\u00a0by them.<\/p>\n
How do I format MLA headings and subheadings?<\/h3>\n
In the MLA format, headings should be written in title case and left-aligned with the page margin. The font and size can be the same as that of the main text, but don\u2019t add a period after the heading.<\/p>\n
The guidelines are not that strict for headings and subheadings\u00a0in MLA,\u00a0so you\u00a0may\u00a0use boldface for the main headings and italicize the subheadings to differentiate between the two.\u00a0The key requirement is that\u00a0you\u00a0remain\u00a0consistent\u00a0when writing\u00a0headings\u00a0at all levels.\u00a0For example,\u00a0all level 1 headings\u00a0must be in the same font, size,\u00a0and\u00a0style\u00a0and the same must be\u00a0maintained\u00a0for the\u00a0subsequent\u00a0heading levels\u00a0(level 2, level 3, etc.)\u00a0as well.<\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format short quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nA short quotation in MLA is any prose passage of four lines or fewer (or two lines or fewer of poetry). These are integrated directly into your text, enclosed in quotation marks.<\/p>\n
Rules:<\/h3>\n\n- Keep the quote within your paragraph \u2014 no new line or indent<\/li>\n
- Enclose in double quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation before<\/strong> the closing period (opposite of block quotes)<\/li>\n
- Integrate grammatically into your sentence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Examples:<\/h3>\n
Narrative citation (author named in sentence):<\/em><\/p>\nOrwell argues that political language is designed to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Parenthetical citation (author not named):<\/em><\/p>\nPolitical prose, one critic observes, exists to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (Orwell 136).<\/p>\n
Altered quotation<\/em> \u2014 use brackets for changes, ellipses for omissions:<\/p>\nOrwell warns that language can “make […] murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Poetry of two lines or fewer:<\/strong> separate lines with a forward slash and a space on each side.<\/p>\nFrost opens with a deceptively simple image: “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, \/ And sorry I could not travel both” (1\u20132).<\/p>\n
Key rule:<\/strong> The period always falls after<\/em> the closing parenthesis, not before it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format block quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, any prose quotation of more than four lines<\/strong> (or more than three lines of poetry) must be formatted as a block quotation.<\/p>\nRules:<\/h3>\n\n- Start the quotation on a new line<\/li>\n
- Indent the entire quote 0.5 inches from the left margin (no additional right indent)<\/li>\n
- Maintain double spacing throughout<\/li>\n
- Omit quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation after<\/strong> the closing period (unlike short quotes, where the citation comes before the period)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Prose example:<\/h3>\n
Discussing the nature of grief, Didion reflects on the physical dimension of loss:<\/p>\nExample of a block quotation in prose (MLA style)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPoetry example<\/strong> (three or more lines): preserve the original line breaks and indent the same way.<\/p>\nExample of a block quote of poetry in MLA style<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nKey distinction from short quotes:<\/strong> The block format itself signals to the reader that the material is quoted, so quotation marks are dropped entirely.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format in-text citations in MLA style?<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, the in-text citation<\/a> should include the author\u2019s surname (or last name) and page number in parentheses. The purpose is simply to direct the readers to the Works Cited list and the\u00a0locator,\u00a0i.e.,\u00a0the page number,\u00a0in the\u00a0cited\u00a0source.<\/p>\nThe citation style varies depending on the number of authors for\u00a0a work.<\/p>\n
\n- For a single author,\u00a0the author\u2019s surname and page number should be\u00a0mentioned<\/li>\n
- For\u00a0two authors,\u00a0specify the\u00a0last\u00a0names of both authors\u00a0separated by \u201cand\u201d\u00a0and\u00a0then\u00a0include the page number<\/li>\n
- For three or more authors,\u00a0mention the first author\u2019s last name followed by\u00a0\u201cet al.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
When it comes to page numbers in MLA format, you need to provide the specific page number\u00a0or a page range\u00a0based on the information you are citing.\u00a0Also, if you want to cite two non-consecutive page numbers from the same source,\u00a0both page numbers\u00a0should be specified and\u00a0separated by a comma.\u00a0Basically, the\u00a0purpose is to let readers know\u00a0exactly\u00a0what details you have covered from the source.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Page setup<\/h3>\n\n- US Letter, 1-inch margins on all sides<\/li>\n
- Times New Roman 12pt throughout<\/li>\n
- Double-spacing everywhere (including the Works Cited page)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
First page<\/h3>\n\n- Header block (top-left): placeholders for your name, instructor’s name, course, and date in MLA date format<\/li>\n
- Centered title placeholder below the header block<\/li>\n
- Running head in the top-right corner on every page: [Last Name] #<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Body<\/h3>\n\n- Three body paragraphs with 0.5-inch first-line indent<\/li>\n
- A block quotation example showing the correct left-indent (0.5″), no quotation marks, and citation placement after<\/em> the period<\/li>\n
- Short quote examples with parenthetical citations in the correct position<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Works Cited page<\/h3>\n\n- Starts on its own page with a centered “Works Cited” heading<\/li>\n
- Four pre-formatted entry templates (book, journal article, website, video) all with the correct 0.5-inch hanging indent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Just replace each [placeholder]<\/strong> with your own content and you’re good to go.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to make an MLA Header and Title Page?<\/h2>\nThere is no need for a separate title page in MLA.\u00a0The main paper typically starts with an MLA header which also\u00a0contains\u00a0the title of the\u00a0paper.<\/p>\n
The header starts with four\u00a0important\u00a0details:<\/p>\n
\n- your\u00a0full\u00a0name<\/li>\n
- the name of your supervisor\u00a0or instructor<\/li>\n
- the course name<\/li>\n
- the date of submission<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
All these details must be left aligned\u00a0and\u00a0written on separate lines\u00a0on the header\u00a0page.\u00a0Do not forget to include a running head at the top right-hand side corner,\u00a0which\u00a0contains\u00a0your surname and the page number.<\/p>\n
The title should be centered\u00a0below the line\u00a0indicating\u00a0the due date for the\u00a0assignment\u00a0submission.\u00a0Some supervisors might instruct you to create a separate title page;\u00a0in such cases,\u00a0follow the guidelines outlined\u00a0by them.<\/p>\n
How do I format MLA headings and subheadings?<\/h3>\n
In the MLA format, headings should be written in title case and left-aligned with the page margin. The font and size can be the same as that of the main text, but don\u2019t add a period after the heading.<\/p>\n
The guidelines are not that strict for headings and subheadings\u00a0in MLA,\u00a0so you\u00a0may\u00a0use boldface for the main headings and italicize the subheadings to differentiate between the two.\u00a0The key requirement is that\u00a0you\u00a0remain\u00a0consistent\u00a0when writing\u00a0headings\u00a0at all levels.\u00a0For example,\u00a0all level 1 headings\u00a0must be in the same font, size,\u00a0and\u00a0style\u00a0and the same must be\u00a0maintained\u00a0for the\u00a0subsequent\u00a0heading levels\u00a0(level 2, level 3, etc.)\u00a0as well.<\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format short quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nA short quotation in MLA is any prose passage of four lines or fewer (or two lines or fewer of poetry). These are integrated directly into your text, enclosed in quotation marks.<\/p>\n
Rules:<\/h3>\n\n- Keep the quote within your paragraph \u2014 no new line or indent<\/li>\n
- Enclose in double quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation before<\/strong> the closing period (opposite of block quotes)<\/li>\n
- Integrate grammatically into your sentence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Examples:<\/h3>\n
Narrative citation (author named in sentence):<\/em><\/p>\nOrwell argues that political language is designed to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Parenthetical citation (author not named):<\/em><\/p>\nPolitical prose, one critic observes, exists to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (Orwell 136).<\/p>\n
Altered quotation<\/em> \u2014 use brackets for changes, ellipses for omissions:<\/p>\nOrwell warns that language can “make […] murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Poetry of two lines or fewer:<\/strong> separate lines with a forward slash and a space on each side.<\/p>\nFrost opens with a deceptively simple image: “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, \/ And sorry I could not travel both” (1\u20132).<\/p>\n
Key rule:<\/strong> The period always falls after<\/em> the closing parenthesis, not before it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format block quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, any prose quotation of more than four lines<\/strong> (or more than three lines of poetry) must be formatted as a block quotation.<\/p>\nRules:<\/h3>\n\n- Start the quotation on a new line<\/li>\n
- Indent the entire quote 0.5 inches from the left margin (no additional right indent)<\/li>\n
- Maintain double spacing throughout<\/li>\n
- Omit quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation after<\/strong> the closing period (unlike short quotes, where the citation comes before the period)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Prose example:<\/h3>\n
Discussing the nature of grief, Didion reflects on the physical dimension of loss:<\/p>\nExample of a block quotation in prose (MLA style)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPoetry example<\/strong> (three or more lines): preserve the original line breaks and indent the same way.<\/p>\nExample of a block quote of poetry in MLA style<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nKey distinction from short quotes:<\/strong> The block format itself signals to the reader that the material is quoted, so quotation marks are dropped entirely.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format in-text citations in MLA style?<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, the in-text citation<\/a> should include the author\u2019s surname (or last name) and page number in parentheses. The purpose is simply to direct the readers to the Works Cited list and the\u00a0locator,\u00a0i.e.,\u00a0the page number,\u00a0in the\u00a0cited\u00a0source.<\/p>\nThe citation style varies depending on the number of authors for\u00a0a work.<\/p>\n
\n- For a single author,\u00a0the author\u2019s surname and page number should be\u00a0mentioned<\/li>\n
- For\u00a0two authors,\u00a0specify the\u00a0last\u00a0names of both authors\u00a0separated by \u201cand\u201d\u00a0and\u00a0then\u00a0include the page number<\/li>\n
- For three or more authors,\u00a0mention the first author\u2019s last name followed by\u00a0\u201cet al.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
When it comes to page numbers in MLA format, you need to provide the specific page number\u00a0or a page range\u00a0based on the information you are citing.\u00a0Also, if you want to cite two non-consecutive page numbers from the same source,\u00a0both page numbers\u00a0should be specified and\u00a0separated by a comma.\u00a0Basically, the\u00a0purpose is to let readers know\u00a0exactly\u00a0what details you have covered from the source.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
First page<\/h3>\n\n- Header block (top-left): placeholders for your name, instructor’s name, course, and date in MLA date format<\/li>\n
- Centered title placeholder below the header block<\/li>\n
- Running head in the top-right corner on every page: [Last Name] #<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Body<\/h3>\n\n- Three body paragraphs with 0.5-inch first-line indent<\/li>\n
- A block quotation example showing the correct left-indent (0.5″), no quotation marks, and citation placement after<\/em> the period<\/li>\n
- Short quote examples with parenthetical citations in the correct position<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Works Cited page<\/h3>\n\n- Starts on its own page with a centered “Works Cited” heading<\/li>\n
- Four pre-formatted entry templates (book, journal article, website, video) all with the correct 0.5-inch hanging indent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Just replace each [placeholder]<\/strong> with your own content and you’re good to go.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to make an MLA Header and Title Page?<\/h2>\nThere is no need for a separate title page in MLA.\u00a0The main paper typically starts with an MLA header which also\u00a0contains\u00a0the title of the\u00a0paper.<\/p>\n
The header starts with four\u00a0important\u00a0details:<\/p>\n
\n- your\u00a0full\u00a0name<\/li>\n
- the name of your supervisor\u00a0or instructor<\/li>\n
- the course name<\/li>\n
- the date of submission<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
All these details must be left aligned\u00a0and\u00a0written on separate lines\u00a0on the header\u00a0page.\u00a0Do not forget to include a running head at the top right-hand side corner,\u00a0which\u00a0contains\u00a0your surname and the page number.<\/p>\n
The title should be centered\u00a0below the line\u00a0indicating\u00a0the due date for the\u00a0assignment\u00a0submission.\u00a0Some supervisors might instruct you to create a separate title page;\u00a0in such cases,\u00a0follow the guidelines outlined\u00a0by them.<\/p>\n
How do I format MLA headings and subheadings?<\/h3>\n
In the MLA format, headings should be written in title case and left-aligned with the page margin. The font and size can be the same as that of the main text, but don\u2019t add a period after the heading.<\/p>\n
The guidelines are not that strict for headings and subheadings\u00a0in MLA,\u00a0so you\u00a0may\u00a0use boldface for the main headings and italicize the subheadings to differentiate between the two.\u00a0The key requirement is that\u00a0you\u00a0remain\u00a0consistent\u00a0when writing\u00a0headings\u00a0at all levels.\u00a0For example,\u00a0all level 1 headings\u00a0must be in the same font, size,\u00a0and\u00a0style\u00a0and the same must be\u00a0maintained\u00a0for the\u00a0subsequent\u00a0heading levels\u00a0(level 2, level 3, etc.)\u00a0as well.<\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format short quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nA short quotation in MLA is any prose passage of four lines or fewer (or two lines or fewer of poetry). These are integrated directly into your text, enclosed in quotation marks.<\/p>\n
Rules:<\/h3>\n\n- Keep the quote within your paragraph \u2014 no new line or indent<\/li>\n
- Enclose in double quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation before<\/strong> the closing period (opposite of block quotes)<\/li>\n
- Integrate grammatically into your sentence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Examples:<\/h3>\n
Narrative citation (author named in sentence):<\/em><\/p>\nOrwell argues that political language is designed to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Parenthetical citation (author not named):<\/em><\/p>\nPolitical prose, one critic observes, exists to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (Orwell 136).<\/p>\n
Altered quotation<\/em> \u2014 use brackets for changes, ellipses for omissions:<\/p>\nOrwell warns that language can “make […] murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Poetry of two lines or fewer:<\/strong> separate lines with a forward slash and a space on each side.<\/p>\nFrost opens with a deceptively simple image: “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, \/ And sorry I could not travel both” (1\u20132).<\/p>\n
Key rule:<\/strong> The period always falls after<\/em> the closing parenthesis, not before it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format block quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, any prose quotation of more than four lines<\/strong> (or more than three lines of poetry) must be formatted as a block quotation.<\/p>\nRules:<\/h3>\n\n- Start the quotation on a new line<\/li>\n
- Indent the entire quote 0.5 inches from the left margin (no additional right indent)<\/li>\n
- Maintain double spacing throughout<\/li>\n
- Omit quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation after<\/strong> the closing period (unlike short quotes, where the citation comes before the period)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Prose example:<\/h3>\n
Discussing the nature of grief, Didion reflects on the physical dimension of loss:<\/p>\nExample of a block quotation in prose (MLA style)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPoetry example<\/strong> (three or more lines): preserve the original line breaks and indent the same way.<\/p>\nExample of a block quote of poetry in MLA style<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nKey distinction from short quotes:<\/strong> The block format itself signals to the reader that the material is quoted, so quotation marks are dropped entirely.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format in-text citations in MLA style?<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, the in-text citation<\/a> should include the author\u2019s surname (or last name) and page number in parentheses. The purpose is simply to direct the readers to the Works Cited list and the\u00a0locator,\u00a0i.e.,\u00a0the page number,\u00a0in the\u00a0cited\u00a0source.<\/p>\nThe citation style varies depending on the number of authors for\u00a0a work.<\/p>\n
\n- For a single author,\u00a0the author\u2019s surname and page number should be\u00a0mentioned<\/li>\n
- For\u00a0two authors,\u00a0specify the\u00a0last\u00a0names of both authors\u00a0separated by \u201cand\u201d\u00a0and\u00a0then\u00a0include the page number<\/li>\n
- For three or more authors,\u00a0mention the first author\u2019s last name followed by\u00a0\u201cet al.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
When it comes to page numbers in MLA format, you need to provide the specific page number\u00a0or a page range\u00a0based on the information you are citing.\u00a0Also, if you want to cite two non-consecutive page numbers from the same source,\u00a0both page numbers\u00a0should be specified and\u00a0separated by a comma.\u00a0Basically, the\u00a0purpose is to let readers know\u00a0exactly\u00a0what details you have covered from the source.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Body<\/h3>\n\n- Three body paragraphs with 0.5-inch first-line indent<\/li>\n
- A block quotation example showing the correct left-indent (0.5″), no quotation marks, and citation placement after<\/em> the period<\/li>\n
- Short quote examples with parenthetical citations in the correct position<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Works Cited page<\/h3>\n\n- Starts on its own page with a centered “Works Cited” heading<\/li>\n
- Four pre-formatted entry templates (book, journal article, website, video) all with the correct 0.5-inch hanging indent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Just replace each [placeholder]<\/strong> with your own content and you’re good to go.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to make an MLA Header and Title Page?<\/h2>\nThere is no need for a separate title page in MLA.\u00a0The main paper typically starts with an MLA header which also\u00a0contains\u00a0the title of the\u00a0paper.<\/p>\n
The header starts with four\u00a0important\u00a0details:<\/p>\n
\n- your\u00a0full\u00a0name<\/li>\n
- the name of your supervisor\u00a0or instructor<\/li>\n
- the course name<\/li>\n
- the date of submission<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
All these details must be left aligned\u00a0and\u00a0written on separate lines\u00a0on the header\u00a0page.\u00a0Do not forget to include a running head at the top right-hand side corner,\u00a0which\u00a0contains\u00a0your surname and the page number.<\/p>\n
The title should be centered\u00a0below the line\u00a0indicating\u00a0the due date for the\u00a0assignment\u00a0submission.\u00a0Some supervisors might instruct you to create a separate title page;\u00a0in such cases,\u00a0follow the guidelines outlined\u00a0by them.<\/p>\n
How do I format MLA headings and subheadings?<\/h3>\n
In the MLA format, headings should be written in title case and left-aligned with the page margin. The font and size can be the same as that of the main text, but don\u2019t add a period after the heading.<\/p>\n
The guidelines are not that strict for headings and subheadings\u00a0in MLA,\u00a0so you\u00a0may\u00a0use boldface for the main headings and italicize the subheadings to differentiate between the two.\u00a0The key requirement is that\u00a0you\u00a0remain\u00a0consistent\u00a0when writing\u00a0headings\u00a0at all levels.\u00a0For example,\u00a0all level 1 headings\u00a0must be in the same font, size,\u00a0and\u00a0style\u00a0and the same must be\u00a0maintained\u00a0for the\u00a0subsequent\u00a0heading levels\u00a0(level 2, level 3, etc.)\u00a0as well.<\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format short quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nA short quotation in MLA is any prose passage of four lines or fewer (or two lines or fewer of poetry). These are integrated directly into your text, enclosed in quotation marks.<\/p>\n
Rules:<\/h3>\n\n- Keep the quote within your paragraph \u2014 no new line or indent<\/li>\n
- Enclose in double quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation before<\/strong> the closing period (opposite of block quotes)<\/li>\n
- Integrate grammatically into your sentence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Examples:<\/h3>\n
Narrative citation (author named in sentence):<\/em><\/p>\nOrwell argues that political language is designed to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Parenthetical citation (author not named):<\/em><\/p>\nPolitical prose, one critic observes, exists to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (Orwell 136).<\/p>\n
Altered quotation<\/em> \u2014 use brackets for changes, ellipses for omissions:<\/p>\nOrwell warns that language can “make […] murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Poetry of two lines or fewer:<\/strong> separate lines with a forward slash and a space on each side.<\/p>\nFrost opens with a deceptively simple image: “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, \/ And sorry I could not travel both” (1\u20132).<\/p>\n
Key rule:<\/strong> The period always falls after<\/em> the closing parenthesis, not before it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format block quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, any prose quotation of more than four lines<\/strong> (or more than three lines of poetry) must be formatted as a block quotation.<\/p>\nRules:<\/h3>\n\n- Start the quotation on a new line<\/li>\n
- Indent the entire quote 0.5 inches from the left margin (no additional right indent)<\/li>\n
- Maintain double spacing throughout<\/li>\n
- Omit quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation after<\/strong> the closing period (unlike short quotes, where the citation comes before the period)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Prose example:<\/h3>\n
Discussing the nature of grief, Didion reflects on the physical dimension of loss:<\/p>\nExample of a block quotation in prose (MLA style)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPoetry example<\/strong> (three or more lines): preserve the original line breaks and indent the same way.<\/p>\nExample of a block quote of poetry in MLA style<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nKey distinction from short quotes:<\/strong> The block format itself signals to the reader that the material is quoted, so quotation marks are dropped entirely.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format in-text citations in MLA style?<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, the in-text citation<\/a> should include the author\u2019s surname (or last name) and page number in parentheses. The purpose is simply to direct the readers to the Works Cited list and the\u00a0locator,\u00a0i.e.,\u00a0the page number,\u00a0in the\u00a0cited\u00a0source.<\/p>\nThe citation style varies depending on the number of authors for\u00a0a work.<\/p>\n
\n- For a single author,\u00a0the author\u2019s surname and page number should be\u00a0mentioned<\/li>\n
- For\u00a0two authors,\u00a0specify the\u00a0last\u00a0names of both authors\u00a0separated by \u201cand\u201d\u00a0and\u00a0then\u00a0include the page number<\/li>\n
- For three or more authors,\u00a0mention the first author\u2019s last name followed by\u00a0\u201cet al.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
When it comes to page numbers in MLA format, you need to provide the specific page number\u00a0or a page range\u00a0based on the information you are citing.\u00a0Also, if you want to cite two non-consecutive page numbers from the same source,\u00a0both page numbers\u00a0should be specified and\u00a0separated by a comma.\u00a0Basically, the\u00a0purpose is to let readers know\u00a0exactly\u00a0what details you have covered from the source.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Works Cited page<\/h3>\n\n- Starts on its own page with a centered “Works Cited” heading<\/li>\n
- Four pre-formatted entry templates (book, journal article, website, video) all with the correct 0.5-inch hanging indent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Just replace each [placeholder]<\/strong> with your own content and you’re good to go.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to make an MLA Header and Title Page?<\/h2>\nThere is no need for a separate title page in MLA.\u00a0The main paper typically starts with an MLA header which also\u00a0contains\u00a0the title of the\u00a0paper.<\/p>\n
The header starts with four\u00a0important\u00a0details:<\/p>\n
\n- your\u00a0full\u00a0name<\/li>\n
- the name of your supervisor\u00a0or instructor<\/li>\n
- the course name<\/li>\n
- the date of submission<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
All these details must be left aligned\u00a0and\u00a0written on separate lines\u00a0on the header\u00a0page.\u00a0Do not forget to include a running head at the top right-hand side corner,\u00a0which\u00a0contains\u00a0your surname and the page number.<\/p>\n
The title should be centered\u00a0below the line\u00a0indicating\u00a0the due date for the\u00a0assignment\u00a0submission.\u00a0Some supervisors might instruct you to create a separate title page;\u00a0in such cases,\u00a0follow the guidelines outlined\u00a0by them.<\/p>\n
How do I format MLA headings and subheadings?<\/h3>\n
In the MLA format, headings should be written in title case and left-aligned with the page margin. The font and size can be the same as that of the main text, but don\u2019t add a period after the heading.<\/p>\n
The guidelines are not that strict for headings and subheadings\u00a0in MLA,\u00a0so you\u00a0may\u00a0use boldface for the main headings and italicize the subheadings to differentiate between the two.\u00a0The key requirement is that\u00a0you\u00a0remain\u00a0consistent\u00a0when writing\u00a0headings\u00a0at all levels.\u00a0For example,\u00a0all level 1 headings\u00a0must be in the same font, size,\u00a0and\u00a0style\u00a0and the same must be\u00a0maintained\u00a0for the\u00a0subsequent\u00a0heading levels\u00a0(level 2, level 3, etc.)\u00a0as well.<\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format short quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nA short quotation in MLA is any prose passage of four lines or fewer (or two lines or fewer of poetry). These are integrated directly into your text, enclosed in quotation marks.<\/p>\n
Rules:<\/h3>\n\n- Keep the quote within your paragraph \u2014 no new line or indent<\/li>\n
- Enclose in double quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation before<\/strong> the closing period (opposite of block quotes)<\/li>\n
- Integrate grammatically into your sentence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Examples:<\/h3>\n
Narrative citation (author named in sentence):<\/em><\/p>\nOrwell argues that political language is designed to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Parenthetical citation (author not named):<\/em><\/p>\nPolitical prose, one critic observes, exists to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (Orwell 136).<\/p>\n
Altered quotation<\/em> \u2014 use brackets for changes, ellipses for omissions:<\/p>\nOrwell warns that language can “make […] murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n
Poetry of two lines or fewer:<\/strong> separate lines with a forward slash and a space on each side.<\/p>\nFrost opens with a deceptively simple image: “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, \/ And sorry I could not travel both” (1\u20132).<\/p>\n
Key rule:<\/strong> The period always falls after<\/em> the closing parenthesis, not before it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format block quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, any prose quotation of more than four lines<\/strong> (or more than three lines of poetry) must be formatted as a block quotation.<\/p>\nRules:<\/h3>\n\n- Start the quotation on a new line<\/li>\n
- Indent the entire quote 0.5 inches from the left margin (no additional right indent)<\/li>\n
- Maintain double spacing throughout<\/li>\n
- Omit quotation marks<\/li>\n
- Place the parenthetical citation after<\/strong> the closing period (unlike short quotes, where the citation comes before the period)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Prose example:<\/h3>\n
Discussing the nature of grief, Didion reflects on the physical dimension of loss:<\/p>\nExample of a block quotation in prose (MLA style)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPoetry example<\/strong> (three or more lines): preserve the original line breaks and indent the same way.<\/p>\nExample of a block quote of poetry in MLA style<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nKey distinction from short quotes:<\/strong> The block format itself signals to the reader that the material is quoted, so quotation marks are dropped entirely.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a>How to format in-text citations in MLA style?<\/h2>\nIn MLA style, the in-text citation<\/a> should include the author\u2019s surname (or last name) and page number in parentheses. The purpose is simply to direct the readers to the Works Cited list and the\u00a0locator,\u00a0i.e.,\u00a0the page number,\u00a0in the\u00a0cited\u00a0source.<\/p>\nThe citation style varies depending on the number of authors for\u00a0a work.<\/p>\n
\n- For a single author,\u00a0the author\u2019s surname and page number should be\u00a0mentioned<\/li>\n
- For\u00a0two authors,\u00a0specify the\u00a0last\u00a0names of both authors\u00a0separated by \u201cand\u201d\u00a0and\u00a0then\u00a0include the page number<\/li>\n
- For three or more authors,\u00a0mention the first author\u2019s last name followed by\u00a0\u201cet al.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
When it comes to page numbers in MLA format, you need to provide the specific page number\u00a0or a page range\u00a0based on the information you are citing.\u00a0Also, if you want to cite two non-consecutive page numbers from the same source,\u00a0both page numbers\u00a0should be specified and\u00a0separated by a comma.\u00a0Basically, the\u00a0purpose is to let readers know\u00a0exactly\u00a0what details you have covered from the source.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Just replace each [placeholder]<\/strong> with your own content and you’re good to go.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n There is no need for a separate title page in MLA.\u00a0The main paper typically starts with an MLA header which also\u00a0contains\u00a0the title of the\u00a0paper.<\/p>\n The header starts with four\u00a0important\u00a0details:<\/p>\n All these details must be left aligned\u00a0and\u00a0written on separate lines\u00a0on the header\u00a0page.\u00a0Do not forget to include a running head at the top right-hand side corner,\u00a0which\u00a0contains\u00a0your surname and the page number.<\/p>\n The title should be centered\u00a0below the line\u00a0indicating\u00a0the due date for the\u00a0assignment\u00a0submission.\u00a0Some supervisors might instruct you to create a separate title page;\u00a0in such cases,\u00a0follow the guidelines outlined\u00a0by them.<\/p>\n In the MLA format, headings should be written in title case and left-aligned with the page margin. The font and size can be the same as that of the main text, but don\u2019t add a period after the heading.<\/p>\n The guidelines are not that strict for headings and subheadings\u00a0in MLA,\u00a0so you\u00a0may\u00a0use boldface for the main headings and italicize the subheadings to differentiate between the two.\u00a0The key requirement is that\u00a0you\u00a0remain\u00a0consistent\u00a0when writing\u00a0headings\u00a0at all levels.\u00a0For example,\u00a0all level 1 headings\u00a0must be in the same font, size,\u00a0and\u00a0style\u00a0and the same must be\u00a0maintained\u00a0for the\u00a0subsequent\u00a0heading levels\u00a0(level 2, level 3, etc.)\u00a0as well.<\/p>\n A short quotation in MLA is any prose passage of four lines or fewer (or two lines or fewer of poetry). These are integrated directly into your text, enclosed in quotation marks.<\/p>\n Narrative citation (author named in sentence):<\/em><\/p>\n Orwell argues that political language is designed to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n Parenthetical citation (author not named):<\/em><\/p>\n Political prose, one critic observes, exists to “make lies sound truthful and murder respectable” (Orwell 136).<\/p>\n Altered quotation<\/em> \u2014 use brackets for changes, ellipses for omissions:<\/p>\n Orwell warns that language can “make […] murder respectable” (136).<\/p>\n Poetry of two lines or fewer:<\/strong> separate lines with a forward slash and a space on each side.<\/p>\n Frost opens with a deceptively simple image: “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, \/ And sorry I could not travel both” (1\u20132).<\/p>\n Key rule:<\/strong> The period always falls after<\/em> the closing parenthesis, not before it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In MLA style, any prose quotation of more than four lines<\/strong> (or more than three lines of poetry) must be formatted as a block quotation.<\/p>\n Discussing the nature of grief, Didion reflects on the physical dimension of loss:<\/p>\n Poetry example<\/strong> (three or more lines): preserve the original line breaks and indent the same way.<\/p>\n Key distinction from short quotes:<\/strong> The block format itself signals to the reader that the material is quoted, so quotation marks are dropped entirely.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In MLA style, the in-text citation<\/a> should include the author\u2019s surname (or last name) and page number in parentheses. The purpose is simply to direct the readers to the Works Cited list and the\u00a0locator,\u00a0i.e.,\u00a0the page number,\u00a0in the\u00a0cited\u00a0source.<\/p>\n The citation style varies depending on the number of authors for\u00a0a work.<\/p>\n When it comes to page numbers in MLA format, you need to provide the specific page number\u00a0or a page range\u00a0based on the information you are citing.\u00a0Also, if you want to cite two non-consecutive page numbers from the same source,\u00a0both page numbers\u00a0should be specified and\u00a0separated by a comma.\u00a0Basically, the\u00a0purpose is to let readers know\u00a0exactly\u00a0what details you have covered from the source.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n<\/a>How to make an MLA Header and Title Page?<\/h2>\n
\n
How do I format MLA headings and subheadings?<\/h3>\n
<\/a>How to format short quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\n
Rules:<\/h3>\n
\n
Examples:<\/h3>\n
<\/a>How to format block quotations in MLA style<\/h2>\n
Rules:<\/h3>\n
\n
Prose example:<\/h3>\n
<\/a>How to format in-text citations in MLA style?<\/h2>\n
\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.editage.com\/insights\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/INSIGHTS_MLA-Formatting-Mistakes-to-Avoid-300x424.jpg\")
<\/p>\n