MLA Heading is a caption that is added to the first page of your paper. The heading includes four elements — writer’s name, instructor’s name, course, and MLA format date. You use your heading only one time per paper, and you need to stick to formatting rules provided by MLA 9th edition.
In the present blog, we will learn to compose a proper heading once and forever. Also, we will learn about other important captions used in MLA format.
How to Format MLA Paper Heading?
As it was mentioned, the MLA style heading provides the most important information about the paper and its author. In MLA 9th edition, it consists of four lines that feature:
- Full name of the author
- Full name of the instructor
- Name and number of the course
- Date
According to MLA provisions, you need to stick to certain strict formatting rules when placing your heading. The heading has to be placed one inch from the top and left side of the page. Also, you need to make double spaces between all the lines. The words in the heading should be capitalized. However, it is not allowed to apply optional features like bold font or underlining.
MLA Header Writing Guide
Just like with headings, MLA header format rules are pretty simple. An MLA header is a caption that is normally located in the top right corner of the page. The header includes two elements — the writer’s last name and a page number. The number is mostly written with Arabic numerals. However, some instructors may require using Roman ones. So, it is better to ask your mentor before getting down to formatting. Just like with a header, it is prohibited to use a bold font or any other additional means of expression at your own discretion. Just in case, an online research paper writer can do everything for you in less than an hour from scratch.
Creating MLA Title Page
MLA Title comes before the first page of your work and serves as a cover page of your paper. Unlike MLA headings, there is no definite set of provisions regarding MLA title page. Some instructors may even ask you to omit it, and it shouldn’t be deemed as a violation.
Still, there are some more or less fixed rules regarding its composition and format. In most cases, the cover page features the following:
- Name of the University (centered and aligned to the top)
- Name of your paper (centered and aligned to the center)
- Sub-Heading of your paper (if you got one, centered and aligned to the center)
- Author’s name (centered and aligned to the bottom)
- Instructor’s name (centered and aligned to the bottom)
- Course and number (centered and aligned to the bottom)
- Date (centered and aligned to the bottom)
If you use the name of the book or a movie in your paper name, it has to be highlighted in italics. All the lines of text have to be capitalized. Do not use some excessive formatting unless you are asked directly by the instructor or use our Title Page Generator.
Usage of MLA Section Headings
Section headings in MLA format are used at the writer’s own discretion. There are no certain rules that dictate the format of your section names. However, in most cases, writers tend to make them centered and bold. The section subheadings are frequently made italicized and also centered.
Even those section headings are generally optional, professional writers recommend using them when it is appropriate. Section headings may help you to structure your thoughts and increase the text readability. The only strict rule considering headings — you need to stick to the format you have chosen from the beginning. Or buy a term paper where everything will be done for you on a turnkey-ready basis.
MLA Running Headers
The headers in MLA format are frequently formatted as running headers. What does it mean? Well, a running header is inserted in the outline of the page automatically and can be adjusted for the entire paper in several clicks. Much more comfortable than writing headers for every separate page, right? That's why now we will learn how to adjust them in Word and Google Docs.
Running Headers in Microsoft Word
When you are typing your paper in Microsoft Word, you need to follow the simple steps to insert a running header:
- Tap on the “Insert” button on the top panel
- Choose the right format — top of the page, right-aligned
- Write your last name and page number
- Use the same font style and size that you use in other text
It is super easy to make your paper more attractive in just a few clicks. Especially, if you pay for a term paper. So, never miss the chance to apply them!
Running Headers in Google Docs
The principle of running headers in Google Docs documents is pretty the same. So, let’s find out how it is done:
- Click the “Insert” button and proceed to the “Headers and Footers” section
- Choose the “Header” option
- Make it right-aligned
- Click on the page number section in the “Insert” menu and adjust it
- Select the header properties like font, style and font size
As you can see, formatting in both Microsoft Word and Google Docs is pretty basic. Even if you forget the principle, it will be easy to recall the sequence intuitively.
As you see, MLA heading and headline formatting is not that complex after all! With a little patience and effort, your paper will look just exemplary! However, if you want to save some time for bigger dids, you can always ask for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What information should I include in the MLA heading?
MLA heading features the following information — author’s name, tutor’s name, your course name and its number and due date of your assignment. The heading is located in the upper left corner and requires double spaces between paragraphs.
2. What font and font size do I use in the MLA heading and header?
When you are writing an MLA heading and header, you have to stick to the MLA-standard 12 pt font. The writer is free to choose the type of font at his or her own discretion. However, you need to choose a readable one.
3. How do I do MLA section headings?
There is no MLA standard for section headings. You can choose your own format of headings as long as you stick to this format throughout the whole paper.
Emma Flores knows all about formatting standards. She shares with StudyCrumb readers tips on creating academic papers that will meet high-quality standards.
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