MLA Style

Paper setup

The 9th edition of the MLA Handbook provides specific guidelines on how to set up your paper. An MLA paper typically includes the following elements:

• the title page,
• the text (body),
• the works cited list.

The paper may also include tables, figures, and notes.

On this part of the MLA guide, you will find the general setup guidelines and details on how to set up the rest of the elements of your paper.

Quick note

The guidelines refer to those using Microsoft Word on a Windows computer. If you are using Word for Mac, an older version of Word, or Google Docs, your paper should still look the same way, but the menu options might be in a different spot.

Many pictures that appear on this guide have been based on the sample papers  provided by the Modern Language Association.