Peirce College Library :: Formatting your Paper


Here are the basic requirements for an MLA-formatted research paper. For more information, see the sample paper, or consult the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 6th ed.

Sample MLA paper (PDF)

  • Use 8.5" x 11" paper
  • Margins are 1" on each side (top, bottom, left, right)
  • Doublespacing is used throughout the paper including quotations, notes, and the list of works cited.
  • You do not need a title page. For the heading, begin 1" from the top of the page and "type your name, your instructor's name, the course number, and the date on separate lines." (MLA p. 133)
  • Put page numbers in the upper right-hand corner. Type your last name before the page number. Type your last name and then the page number (Weaver 1).
  • Your list of works cited comes at the end of your paper. Start the list of works cited on a separate sheet of paper.
  • URLs in your list of works cited should NOT be underlined.
  • For more detailed information, or for situations not covered in this guide, see the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 6th ed.

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