MLA, or Modern Language Association, has a set of rules and guidelines that every student must follow when writing an assignment in that format. MLA is one of the major writing styles used in academic writing.
So, if you’ve been asked to submit your assignment in MLA style, you should read the following tips to make sure your assignment is perfect.
Tips on How to Write an Assignment in MLA Format:
- MLA Heading and Instructions
When creating the MLA header for your assignment, follow these steps:
- Write your full name.
- Position your name one inch from the top left margin of the page.
- Add a double space and then write your instructor’s name.
- Write the name of your course and enrollment number.
- Write the due date of the assignment.
- Add another double space and then write the title of the assignment. Keep it centered on the page.
Note: The title should be written in a standard format, without underline, bold, or any quotation marks.
Here’s an example of an MLA header for an assignment:
ABC Williams
Professor XYZ
Math 105
27 July 2019
Tips to Write an Assignment in MLA Format
- The Running Head and Page Number
The running head is a short header placed at the top right corner of the page. It includes the writer’s last name followed by the page number. For example:
Williams 2
(Be sure to keep a little space from the top and right side)
Note: Do not include “p.” before the page number.
- Margins
Use a one-inch margin around the entire page of the assignment. This helps the document look clear and organized.
- Paragraphs
- Start the first sentence of every paragraph a little to the right.
- Start each sentence of every paragraph with a little space from the left.
- Leave some space between each paragraph.
- Quotations
Our experts always recommend including quotations in your assignment. They can be used to support an argument or illustrate a point.
Remember, don’t overuse quotes in your assignment. Only use them when necessary. Additionally, you can use direct quotes to enhance your own writing and ideas. Always give credit to the original author.
There are three ways to incorporate quotes:
- Include the writer’s name in the sentence. For example:
“ABC Williams shares a glimpse…”
Write the quote without the writer’s name in the sentence, and include the name in parentheses at the end. For example:
“A story…end (ABC Williams).”
- Use a block quote format for large quotes of 4 or more lines. This is particularly useful when multiple authors are involved, in which case it’s better to use footnotes and endnotes.
- Spacing
When writing an assignment in MLA format, always use double-spacing throughout, including the title, reference page, main body, and headings.
- Font Size and Font
You can use any font style for your assignment, but Arial and Times New Roman are preferred because they make it easy to distinguish between italicized and regular text. Use a 12-point font size.
- Punctuation
Use punctuation as follows:
- Commas: Use them when it makes sense for the reader to pause.
- Quotation marks: When using a quote in your assignment, place the period outside the parentheses.
- Concluding sentences: After closing a sentence with a punctuation mark, start the next sentence with a single space.
- Works Cited MLA Format
Make sure to include citations in your assignment using MLA format, as it’s important for showing that your work is trustworthy. Here are some things to remember:
- Put your list of citations on the last page of your assignment.
- At the top of the page, include a heading and the page number.
- Write your citations in alphabetical order.
- Leave double space between each entry.
If you’re not sure how to cite your assignment correctly, you can check out this blog for helpful tips on citing and referencing.
- Proofreading and Editing
It’s important to carefully check and correct your assignment before submitting it. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Grammar
Read through your entire assignment to make sure you’re using words correctly. You can use tools like Grammarly to help find mistakes, but always read over the sentence to make sure any changes suggested make sense.
- Spelling
Check that all the words are spelled correctly. You can use a spell checker to help with this, but make sure to review any suggested changes before accepting them.
- Punctuation
Make sure you’re using punctuation correctly in every sentence. Incorrect punctuation can change the meaning of a sentence, so it’s important to check carefully.
- Submission
Before you turn in your assignment, make sure you understand the guidelines. Each professor may have different requirements, such as whether they want a hard copy or a Word document. Make sure to follow the guidelines and submit your assignment correctly.
Wrapping Up
Formatting an assignment in MLA format can be tricky. However, with the tips mentioned above, it won’t be as hard for you. If you’re still having trouble with MLA format and it’s stopping you from finishing your assignment, don’t worry. Get online assignment help from our experts, and they’ll help make things easier for you.