Mastering MLA Format in Word 2016: Easy Steps for Research Papers

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Understanding MLA Format
   • 2.1 Spacing and Indentation
   • 2.2 Header and Footer
3. Editing a Research Paper for MLA Format
   • 3.1 Adjusting Line Spacing
   • 3.2 Setting Paragraph Indentation
   • 3.3 Adding Page Numbers
   • 3.4 Inserting Headers and Footers
   • 3.5 Including the Author's Name
   • 3.6 Formatting the Title
   • 3.7 Adding File Name in the Footer
4. Conclusion

Editing a Research Paper for MLA Format

Writing a research paper in MLA format requires attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines. Proper formatting can greatly enhance the readability and professionalism of your paper. In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process of editing a research paper for MLA format, covering various aspects such as spacing, indentation, headers, footers, and more.

1. Understanding MLA Format

Before diving into the editing process, it is important to have a clear understanding of MLA format. MLA (Modern Language Association) is a widely used academic writing style that provides guidelines for formatting papers in various disciplines, including humanities and liberal arts.

1.1 Spacing and Indentation

One of the key elements of MLA formatting is the use of double spacing throughout the paper. To adjust the line spacing in your document, select all the text and go to the Home tab. In the Paragraph group, click on the Paragraph dialog box launcher. In the spacing options, choose "Double" for line spacing and set the spacing after each paragraph to "0 point."

1.2 Header and Footer

MLA format requires the inclusion of a header at the top of each page, containing the author's last name and the page number. To insert a header, go to the Insert tab and select Header from the Header & Footer group. Then, choose the "Edit Header" option. In the header section, type the author's last name followed by a space and insert the page number using the Header and Footer Tools Design tab. Align the header to the right for consistency.

2. Editing a Research Paper for MLA Format

Now that we have a basic understanding of MLA format, let's proceed with editing a research paper step by step.

2.1 Adjusting Line Spacing

To ensure your paper conforms to MLA guidelines, adjust the line spacing to "Double" throughout the document. This provides enough space between lines for easy readability.

2.2 Setting Paragraph Indentation

MLA format requires a specific paragraph indentation. To set the indentation, go to the Home tab and click on the Paragraph dialog box launcher. In the indentation options, set the Special to "First line" and the By to "0.5".

2.3 Adding Page Numbers

In MLA format, page numbers play a crucial role in identifying the author's work. To add page numbers, go to the Header and Footer Tools Design tab and choose the "Plain Number" option. Align the page number to the right for consistency.

2.4 Inserting Headers and Footers

Headers and footers provide important information and maintain consistency throughout the document. To insert a header, go to the Insert tab, select Header, and choose the "Edit Header" option. Type the author's last name and separate it from the page number with a space. Align the header to the right.

2.5 Including the Author's Name

The author's name should be included in the heading of the document. Press Enter after the title and enter the author's name. Center the heading using the Paragraph group in the Home tab.

2.6 Formatting the Title

The title of the research paper should be centered on the page. Use the Center alignment option in the Paragraph group on the Home tab to ensure proper formatting.

2.7 Adding File Name in the Footer

To add the file name in the footer, go to the Header and Footer Tools Design tab and click on the "Go to Footer" option. From the Document Info group, select "File Name" to automatically insert the file name into the footer.

3. Conclusion

In conclusion, editing a research paper for MLA format involves attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines. By adjusting line spacing, setting paragraph indentation, inserting headers and footers, and including the author's name and file name, you can ensure your paper meets the requirements of MLA formatting. Following these steps will result in a polished and professional research paper that is properly formatted according to MLA guidelines.