Writing a research paper can be a challenging task, but with the right guidance, you can simplify the process. The MLA Research Paper Template is designed to help students format their papers correctly, ensuring consistency and professionalism throughout. New to MLA formatting or just looking for a refresher, this easy-to-follow guide will walk you through each step. From setting up your document to citing sources, the MLA Research Paper Template will make your paper look polished and well-organized. Let’s dive into the essentials of MLA formatting to set you up for success!
Types of Secondary Research: Methods, Sources, and Examples
The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is commonly used in humanities disciplines, such as literature, philosophy, history, and the arts. It provides a clear structure for writers, helping them organize their thoughts, citations, and references in a standardized way. The MLA format focuses on clarity and consistency, which makes it easier for readers to follow the paper and for writers to present their ideas professionally.
What is the MLA Research Paper Template?
An MLA research paper template is a structured format that guides you through writing a research paper in the MLA style. The template ensures that you adhere to the correct guidelines for paper formatting, font style, citations, references, and much more.
The key components of the MLA research paper template include:
- Title Page (optional): MLA doesn’t require a title page, but your instructor might ask for one. If you include one, follow MLA’s specific guidelines.
- Header: Your paper must have a header that includes your last name and the page number.
- Title: The title should be centered on the page and written in the same font as the rest of your paper.
- Font and Spacing: The MLA format calls for 12-point, readable fonts like Times New Roman, with double spacing throughout the paper.
- Margins: Use 1-inch margins on all sides of your document.
- Indentation: Every new paragraph should begin with a half-inch indentation.
When following the MLA research paper template, be sure to pay attention to these aspects to create a well-organized and easy-to-read paper.
Guide to Using the MLA Research Paper Template
1. Setting Up Your Document
Before you start writing, it’s essential to set up your document according to MLA guidelines.
- Margins: Ensure that your document has 1-inch margins on all sides.
- Font and Size: Use a legible font like Times New Roman in 12-point size.
- Spacing: The entire paper should be double-spaced. This includes the title, headings, and references.
- Alignment: Your text should be aligned to the left with no additional space between paragraphs.
- Indentation: Indent the first line of each paragraph by half an inch. You can do this by hitting the Tab key once at the beginning of each paragraph.
2. Creating the Header
The header in an MLA research paper includes your last name and the page number.
- Placement: The header should be located in the upper-right corner of each page.
- Font: Use the same font and size (Times New Roman, 12 pt).
- How to Format: In the upper-right corner, type your last name followed by a space and the page number (e.g., “Sastry 1”).
3. Adding Your Title
The title of your research paper should be centered on the page.
- No Special Formatting: Don’t bold, italicize, or underline the title. It should be in regular font, the same as the rest of the text.
- Capitalize: Capitalize the first and last words of your title, as well as any major words in between.
- No Additional Formatting: The title should not be in quotation marks or italics unless it’s the title of a book, article, or other work.
4. Citing Sources in MLA Format
One of the most important aspects of the MLA research paper template is how to cite your sources. MLA uses in-text citations and a Works Cited page at the end of your paper.
- In-text Citations: These citations are placed in parentheses within the body of your paper and should include the author’s last name and the page number where the information was found. Example: (Sastry 22).
- Works Cited Page: At the end of your paper, you’ll need to include a Works Cited page that lists all the sources you referenced in your paper. Each entry should be in alphabetical order and follow MLA’s specific format.
Example of a book citation for the Works Cited page: Sastry, Jasmin. Understanding Research Methods. XYZ Publishing, 2023.
5. Writing and Organizing Your Paper
The body of your research paper should be divided into sections and organized logically. Use clear headings and subheadings if necessary to guide the reader through your paper.
- Introduction: This section should introduce the topic of your research and provide context.
- Thesis Statement: In the introduction, include a clear thesis statement that outlines your argument or the purpose of your paper.
- Body Paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on a single idea or argument and be supported with evidence from your research.
- Conclusion: The conclusion should summarize your main points and restate the thesis in light of the evidence provided in your paper.
6. Formatting the Works Cited Page
The Works Cited page should start on a new page after the conclusion of your paper. Here’s how to format it:
- Title: Title this page “Works Cited” (without quotation marks) and center it at the top of the page.
- Spacing: Double-space all entries.
- Hanging Indentation: Use hanging indentation for each entry, meaning the first line is flush with the left margin, and subsequent lines are indented half an inch.
- Alphabetical Order: List all entries alphabetically by the author’s last name.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in MLA Research Paper Template
While the MLA research paper template is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that students often make. Here are some tips on how to avoid them:
- Not Following the Header Guidelines: Remember, the page number and your last name should be in the header of every page.
- Incorrect Citations: Always double-check your in-text citations and Works Cited entries for accuracy. Misformatted citations can impact the credibility of your research.
- Overcomplicating the Title: Keep your title simple and focused on your paper’s main idea. Avoid using unnecessary words or embellishments.
- Skipping the Indentation: Each new paragraph should be indented half an inch. Don’t forget this crucial step in MLA formatting.
- Not Proofreading: Always proofread your paper for grammar and spelling errors before submission.
By now, you should have a clear understanding of how to use an MLA research paper template to create a well-structured, correctly formatted research paper. From setting up your document to citing sources and writing the conclusion, every aspect of your paper is important for presenting your research in the best possible light.
Using the MLA research paper template not only helps you follow the correct formatting guidelines but also ensures that your work is easy to read and professionally presented. Clear and consistent formatting makes your paper stand out, and by following MLA’s structure, you’re ensuring that your work is both academically acceptable and visually appealing.
