MLA format is a widely used citation style in academic writing. It is used to cite sources and format papers in the fields of humanities and liberal arts. With the increasing use of technology, many students and researchers are now using Microsoft Word to write their papers. In this article, we will discuss how to MLA format Microsoft Word and provide tips for using the MLA template.
What is MLA Format?
MLA (Modern Language Association) format is a set of guidelines for formatting academic papers and citing sources. It includes rules for formatting the paper, in-text citations, and the works cited page. MLA format is commonly used in English, literature, and other humanities courses.
MLA Template
Microsoft Word offers a built-in MLA template that can be used to format your paper. To access the MLA template, open Microsoft Word and click on “New” to create a new document. In the search bar, type “MLA” and press enter. This will bring up the MLA template, which you can select and open.
Formatting Your Paper
Once you have opened the MLA template, you can begin formatting your paper. The template is already set up with the correct margins, font, and spacing, so you don’t have to worry about those details. However, you will need to make sure that your paper is double-spaced and that you are using a legible font, such as Times New Roman or Arial.
In-Text Citations
In MLA format, in-text citations are used to give credit to sources within the body of your paper. These citations should include the author’s last name and the page number where the information was found. For example: (Smith 23). If there is no author, you can use the title of the source instead. If you are citing a source with multiple authors, list all of their last names in the citation.
Works Cited Page
The works cited page is where you list all of the sources you used in your paper. It should be formatted with a hanging indent and in alphabetical order by the author’s last name. The MLA template has a pre-formatted works cited page, but you will need to add your sources and make sure they are in the correct format. Use the MLA handbook or an online citation generator to ensure your citations are accurate.
Tips for Using the MLA Template
- Save the MLA template as a separate document so you can use it for future papers.
- Make sure to save your paper frequently to avoid losing your work.
- Use the “Save As” function to save your paper as a PDF to ensure the formatting stays intact when submitting electronically.
- Double-check your in-text citations and works cited page for accuracy.
- If you are unsure about any formatting or citation rules, consult the MLA handbook or ask your instructor for clarification.
By following these tips and using the MLA template in Microsoft Word, you can easily format your paper in MLA style. Remember to always double-check your work and ask for help if needed. Happy writing!
