How to Apply MLA Format to Google Docs

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How to Apply MLA Format to Google Docs

Applying MLA format to your Google Docs can enhance the professionalism and readability of your academic papers. Whether you're writing a research paper, essay, or thesis, adhering to the Modern Language Association (MLA) style ensures consistency and clarity. Follow these steps to properly format your document in Google Docs.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Set Up Your Document

Open Google Docs and start a new document or open an existing one.

2. Adjust Margins

  1. Go to the "File" menu.
  2. Select "Page setup."
  3. Set the margins to 1 inch on all sides (top, bottom, left, right).

3. Choose the Right Font and Size

  1. Click on the "Format" menu.
  2. Select "Text" and then "Font" to choose a legible font like Times New Roman.
  3. Click on "Size" and select 12 pt. This is the standard size for MLA format.

4. Format Your Header

  1. Insert a header by clicking on "Insert" and then "Headers & footers."
  2. Choose "Header" to add your header space.
  3. Align the text to the right.
  4. Type your last name followed by a space and the page number (e.g., Smith 1).
  5. Click on the "Format" menu, then "Align & indent," and select "Indentation options."
  6. Set the header to 0.5 inches from the top.

5. Set Up Your Title and Heading

  1. Type your name, instructor’s name, course title, and date at the top left corner, each on a new line.
  2. Center your title on the next line. Make sure your title is in the same font and size as the rest of the text but not bolded, underlined, or italicized.

6. Create a Works Cited Page

  1. Go to the end of your document and insert a new page by selecting "Insert" and then "Break," followed by "Page break."
  2. Title this page "Works Cited" and center it.
  3. Ensure that all citations follow MLA format with hanging indents. To do this, highlight your citations, click "Format," choose "Align & indent," then "Indentation options," and set the "Special" dropdown to "Hanging" with a 0.5-inch indent.

7. Double-Check Spacing

  1. Highlight all text by pressing Ctrl+A (or Command+A on Mac).
  2. Click on the "Format" menu, then "Line spacing," and choose "Double." Ensure there are no extra spaces before or after paragraphs by selecting "Add space before paragraph" and "Add space after paragraph" to "0 pt."

8. Review and Save

  1. Review your document for any formatting errors.
  2. Save your document by clicking on "File" and then "Download" to save it in your preferred format, or simply ensure it's saved in Google Drive.

FAQ

What is MLA format?

MLA format is a style guide created by the Modern Language Association. It is used primarily in the humanities and liberal arts and provides guidelines for writing and citing sources.

Can I use other fonts besides Times New Roman in MLA format?

MLA format typically requires Times New Roman, size 12. It’s best to adhere to these specifications to meet academic standards.

How do I create a hanging indent for my Works Cited page in Google Docs?

Highlight your citations, go to "Format," choose "Align & indent," then "Indentation options," and set "Special" to "Hanging" with a 0.5-inch indent.

Why is double spacing important in MLA format?

Double spacing improves readability and provides space for comments and corrections, which is especially useful in academic settings.

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