How to Add MLA Page Numbers in Google Docs
When writing a research paper in MLA format, adding page numbers is an essential requirement. Google Docs makes it easy to insert and customize page numbers according to the MLA guidelines. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of adding MLA-style page numbers in Google Docs, step by step.
Steps to Add MLA Page Numbers in Google Docs
1. Open Your Document
Before starting, make sure you have your document ready. Open Google Docs, and either create a new document or open an existing one where you need to add MLA-style page numbers.
2. Go to the "Insert" Menu
At the top of your Google Docs toolbar, click on "Insert." From the drop-down menu, hover over "Page numbers." You’ll see a few options for where you want the page numbers to appear.
3. Choose Top Right for MLA Format
MLA format requires page numbers to be placed in the upper right corner of each page, along with your last name. In the "Page numbers" option, select the first choice, which places the numbers in the top right corner of each page.
4. Insert Your Last Name
After adding the page numbers, you will need to type your last name next to the number, as required by MLA format. To do this, double-click on the page number at the top right corner of the page to open the header section.
Once the header is active, click in front of the page number and type your last name, followed by a space. The format should look like this: Smith 1. Now, every page will automatically display your last name followed by the correct page number.
5. Set Font and Size
In MLA format, the font should typically be Times New Roman, 12-point. To ensure the page numbers adhere to these standards, select the text in the header (your last name and the page number), and then go to the toolbar to change the font and size if needed. You can adjust these settings by clicking on the "Font" drop-down menu.
6. Exclude the First Page (Optional)
In some cases, your instructor may ask you to exclude the page number from the first page of your document. To do this, double-click on the header of the first page, then check the box that says "Different first page" in the header options. This will remove the page number from the first page, while keeping it on the following ones.
7. Close the Header
Once you’ve finished adding the page numbers and making the necessary adjustments, simply click anywhere outside the header to close it. Your MLA-style page numbers should now be properly formatted and ready for submission.
FAQs
1. Can I add MLA page numbers to an existing document in Google Docs?
Yes, you can easily add MLA page numbers to any existing document by following the steps above.
2. What is the correct position for MLA page numbers?
MLA page numbers should be placed in the upper right corner of each page, along with your last name.
3. How do I exclude the first page from page numbering?
To exclude the first page, double-click on the header of the first page and select the "Different first page" option in the header settings.
4. Does MLA format require a specific font and size for page numbers?
Yes, MLA format typically uses Times New Roman, 12-point font for both the body text and the page numbers.
5. Can I customize the page numbers further in Google Docs?
Yes, Google Docs allows you to customize the font, size, and positioning of the page numbers, but you should ensure that any changes comply with MLA formatting guidelines.