MLA format on Google Docs Step-by-Step Guide: | Create Properly Formatted Papers

How to Do MLA Format on Google Docs

Google Docs is a well-known word processing application that provides users with a simple and quick way to generate and format a wide variety of document types. When it comes to academic writing, following the format recommended by the Modern Language Association (MLA) is critical for maintaining professionalism and uniformity across all of one’s writing. In this piece, we will instruct you on how to set up MLA format in Google Docs, including how to create in-text citations and format a Works Cited page.

Introduction to MLA format

The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is a set of principles that was designed and is mostly used for writing papers and citing sources within the fields of the humanities and liberal arts. MLA stands for the Modern Language Association. It offers academic publications with a uniform framework, which includes criteria for formatting, citing sources, and presenting information in a coherent manner.

Setting up MLA format in Google Docs

Follow the steps below to begin formatting your work in Google Docs according to MLA standards:

Adjusting page margins and size

Adjusting the page margins and size is the first thing you need to do in order to set up MLA format. The Modern Language Association (MLA) style demands that the margins on all sides of the document measure one inch. To make changes to the margins, go to the “File” menu in the top-right corner of the screen, then pick “Page setup.” In the dialog box for setting up the page, set the margins to one inch, and then click “OK.”

In addition, make sure that the size of the document is set to the usual letter size, which is 8.5 inches by 11 inches.

Choosing the appropriate font and size

The Modern Language Association (MLA) style suggests making use of a legible typeface such as Times New Roman and setting the point size to 12. Select the text that you wish to modify, then go to the toolbar’s font dropdown option and select Times New Roman. This will allow you to adjust both the font style and the size of the text. The next step is to select 12 points from the font size dropdown menu by clicking on it.

Adding a header with student information

The student’s last name and the page number are both included in the header of an MLA format -styled paper. To create a header, open Google Docs’ “Insert” menu and pick “Header & page number.” This will bring up a menu where you can add the header. Select the alternative from the pull-down menu that places the page number in the upper-right hand corner of the page. After that, type your surname before the page number, making sure to align it to the right as you do so.

Inserting page numbers

The upper right hand corner of each page must feature a page number when using the MLA format. Google Docs allows you to automate the process of inserting page numbers. To activate this function, go to the “Insert” menu, pick “Header & page number,” and then choose the option “Page numbers.” Your document will receive the page numbers that you’ve requested automatically.

Formatting the title

It is important that the title of the document you are working on be centered and styled correctly. To change the formatting of the title, click anywhere within the text, then use the toolbar to select the “center alignment” option. In addition to that, you should make sure to capitalize the first letter of each essential word in the title.

Creating the Works Cited page

Any piece of writing that is formatted using the MLA style needs to include a page labeled Works Cited. It gives a detailed list of all the sources that are referenced in your article. To generate a correctly formatted Works Cited page in MLA style using Google Docs, follow these steps:

Add a new page

To add a new page, move the mouse to the very last page of your document and then hit the “Ctrl + Enter” keys on your keyboard. By doing so, you may rest assured that the Works Cited page will start on a new page.

Formatting the Works Cited title

On the newly created page, write “Works Cited” in plain text at the top center of the page. This is the title that will appear at the top of your Works Cited page.

Organizing sources using hanging indent

A dangling indent is required for each entry on the Works Cited page when using the MLA format on google docs . Select the text that you wish to format, right-click on it, and then select “Paragraph” from the list of available options to apply a hanging indent. Choose “Hanging” from the indentation dropdown option in the Paragraph settings dialog box, which is located under the “Special” heading. To implement the dangling indent, select the “OK” button.

Citing different types of sources

It is absolutely necessary to adhere to the MLA format on google docs that is distinct for each type of source when listing them on the Works Cited page of your paper. Here are some common examples:

• Books: Include the author’s name, book title, publication information (city, publisher, year), and format (print or electronic).
• Websites: Provide the author’s name (if available), website title, publication date or access date, URL, and format.
• Articles: Include the author’s name, article title, journal title, volume and issue number (if applicable), publication date, page numbers, and format.

Always make sure you follow the requirements for punctuation and formatting that correspond with the type of source you are using. For information on specific citation formats, refer to either the MLA Handbook or a reputable online resource.

In-text citations in MLA format

When adopting the MLA format, it is absolutely necessary to cite your sources within the main body of your writing using in-text citations. This technique guarantees that you give proper credit to the original writers and lets readers to discover the whole source information on your Works Cited page. on addition, this practice ensures that you give proper credit to the original authors. In-text citations should adhere to the following guidelines:

Understanding the importance of in-text citations

In-text citations are brief references to the source material that you are utilising in the article that you are writing. They assist in establishing credibility and aid in the prevention of plagiarism.

Using parenthetical citations for direct quotes and paraphrased information

You are required to include an in-text citation any time you directly quote the ideas of another person or paraphrase the views of another person. Put the reference in parenthesis and place it right after the information that you have quoted or paraphrased.

Including the author’s name and page number

In MLA format, the in-text citation typically includes the author’s last name and the page number(s) from the source. For example: (Smith 42). If the author’s name is already mentioned in the sentence, you can simply include the page number in parentheses.

Proofreading and finalizing the document

It is imperative that you perform a comprehensive proofreading session before you put the finishing touches on your paper once you have finished the formatting, citations, and content of it. If you follow these instructions, you can rest assured that your document will be flawless and formatted according to MLA standards:

Checking for proper capitalization and punctuation

Examine the entirety of the document while paying close attention to the proper use of punctuation and capitalization. Check to see that all of the headings, titles, and sentences have the appropriate formatting.

Verifying the accuracy of citations

In order to guarantee that your work is accurate and consistent, you should check each in-text citation against the appropriate entry in your Works Cited page.

Reviewing formatting consistency throughout the document

Run a check across your document to make sure that the font style, font size, line spacing, margins, and any other elements of formatting stay the same the whole way through.

Conclusion

Finally, the ability to properly use MLA guidelines in Google Docs is crucial for any student who intends to pursue a career in writing. You can safely produce a work in MLA format that satisfies the standards of professional and scholarly writing by following the instructions provided in this article.

Margin and page size adjustments, font and size decisions, a header with the student’s information, page number placement, and title formatting are all part of MLA format. You can rest assured that your paper will be in compliance with MLA standards if you follow these instructions.

The MLA Works Cited page is an essential part of any research paper. The Works Cited page should be on a separate page, have a properly formatted title, and utilize a hanging indent for each element. Learn the correct referencing style for many mediums, such as books, websites, and articles.

MLA format relies heavily on in-text citations. They tell the reader where to find more information on the sources you cited in the text itself. When using direct quotes or paraphrased information, be sure to add the author’s name and page number in parenthetical citations.

Proofread and check for uniformity in formatting before submitting your final draft. Verify that you used the correct case, punctuation, and citation styles. If you follow these guidelines, your MLA-formatted paper will look neat and professional.

Always keep in mind that using the MLA style not only indicates your dedication to academic integrity and writing brilliance, but also ensures appropriate citation and formatting.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)