When it comes to formatting a research paper according to the MLA (Modern Language Association) style, the heading is a crucial element that sets the tone for the entire document. The MLA style is widely used in the humanities, such as literature, language, and cultural studies, because it provides a clear and concise method for formatting papers and citing sources. For instance, in a paper discussing the themes of identity in James Joyce’s “Ulysses,” the MLA heading would include the student’s name, instructor’s name, course name, and date, all aligned in the upper left-hand corner of the first page.
Here’s a breakdown of what the MLA heading should look like:
Student’s Name: Your full name should be spelled out in full. For example, if your name is John Doe, it should appear as “John Doe” in the heading.
Instructor’s Name: Include the name of the instructor or professor teaching the course. If the instructor has a title (e.g., Professor, Dr., Mr., Ms., etc.), it should be included. For example, “Professor Jane Smith.”
Course Name: Specify the name of the course for which the paper is being written. This could be something like “English Literature 101” or “Introduction to Cultural Studies.”
Date: Include the date the paper is due or the date it is being submitted. This should be in a format like “24 February 2023” rather than “2/24/2023.”
All of this information should be double-spaced and aligned with the left margin of the page. The text of the paper should begin immediately below the date, also double-spaced.
Here’s an example:
John Doe Professor Jane Smith English Literature 101 24 February 2023
The utility of the MLA heading lies in its ability to provide essential information about the author, the instructor, the course, and the submission date, all in a clear and concise manner. For example, in a research paper exploring the historical context of the American Civil War, the MLA heading would serve as a professional and academic introduction to the paper, setting the stage for the comprehensive analysis that follows.
It’s worth noting that while the MLA style emphasizes clarity and simplicity in its guidelines, there are also opportunities for creativity and originality within the format. For instance, a paper analyzing the poetic devices in Emily Dickinson’s poetry might use the MLA heading as a way to introduce the themes of the paper, with the student’s name, instructor’s name, course name, and date serving as a kind of poetic signature.
In addition to the MLA heading, there are several other key elements to consider when formatting a research paper in MLA style. These include:
- Font and Spacing: The MLA style recommends using a legible font, such as 12-point Times New Roman, and double-spacing throughout the paper.
- Margins: The paper should have one-inch margins on all sides (top, bottom, left, and right).
- Indentation: Paragraphs should be indented five spaces (or one tab stop) from the left margin.
- Header: Include a header in the upper right-hand corner of each page, with your last name and the page number. For example, “Doe 1.”
By following these guidelines and incorporating the MLA heading into your research paper, you can ensure that your work is presented in a clear, concise, and professional manner, making it easier for readers to focus on the content and substance of your argument. Whether you’re analyzing literary themes, exploring historical events, or examining cultural phenomena, the MLA style provides a flexible and adaptable framework for presenting your ideas and engaging with your audience.
