cover letter mla format examples

MLA Format: A Complete Guide with Examples

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Written by  Scribendi

Your instructor has asked you to format your term paper using Modern Language Association (MLA) style. You feel confident enough to produce the paper, but you have never heard of MLA style. Don't panic—we've got you covered.

This article will explain MLA style citation, give examples of MLA formatting for specific aspects of references, provide an MLA format example for each category of source material, and share essay formatting tips that our editors have learned over the years. 

You'll even find a free, downloadable MLA Works Cited example page for easy reference. So, if you have a general understanding of what MLA style is and are just looking for examples of MLA citations, we can help with that too!

Free MLA Cheat Sheet

What Is MLA Style?

MLA style is an accepted way to document source material for many types of humanities documents. Some would say it is simpler than other style guides, such as the APA Style Guide or the Chicago Manual of Style . 

An MLA citation has two basic requirements:

Brief parenthetical citations in the text

An alphabetical list of the works cited that corresponds to the in-text citations and appears at the end of the paper

In simple terms, you refer to your source material in parentheses throughout the main text—then, at the end of your paper, you list all the sources to which you have referred, in alphabetical order.

Of course, there is so much more to MLA style and MLA formatting than just that. Indeed, the current version of the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers (7th Edition) runs to 292 pages! But here are the essential style and formatting points.

MLA Format Citation Example

To start, let's look at a basic example of how to format a citation in MLA.

Last Name, First Name. "Title of Webpage/Chapter/Article." Website/Book Title/Journal Title , edition used, vol. X, no. Y, Publisher,

Day  Month Year of Publication, URL/location/page number.

This is MLA format at its simplest.

Why Use MLA Format (or Any Other)?

The main reason for carefully citing source material is to avoid allegations of plagiarism, which—derived from the Latin word for "kidnapping"—refers to stealing someone else's work. The MLA Handbook explains plagiarism in detail. You should feel free to use another person's words, facts, and thoughts in your research paper, but the material you borrow must not be presented as if it were your own creation. 

When you write your research paper, remember that you must document everything that you borrow—not only direct quotations and paraphrases but also information and ideas. Our MLA citation guide will walk you through how to properly cite your sources using MLA style.

Who Uses MLA Citation Format?

MLA-style citation is commonly used by writers and students who create content in the humanities.

You'll often see it used for the following subject areas:

Language and literature

Comparative literature

Literary criticism

Cultural studies

Foreign languages

Using MLA's citation guide in these fields of study gives readers an easier option for navigating through your paper. In addition to making you look credible by neatly organizing your sources, MLA citation lends consistency to your work. It provides readers with the opportunity to easily find sources in your paper that interest them.

How to Use MLA Format

The early stages of producing a paper involve copious amounts of reading, research, and note-taking. At this point, it's easy to get confused about who said what. The best way to avoid getting confused right from the start is to keep your ideas, your summary of others' ideas, and direct transcriptions of text clearly marked and separate. Throughout our guide, we'll provide examples of MLA citation to give you a hand. 

Make notes on the following elements for ease of reference and proper MLA citation later on:

Author's name

Full title of each publication (from the title page, not the front cover)

City of publication (cite only the first city if there is more than one)

Date of publication

Volume and issue numbers, if available (for journals)

Page numbers you have referenced

Medium of publication or reception (print, web, radio, television, etc.)

Laying the groundwork during your research will make the citation process much easier later on.

MLA Citation Format

Because we know there are many ways to cite a reference in MLA, depending on what source you're using, we've compiled an extensive list of MLA citation examples below.

You'll find MLA citation examples for articles, books, images, interviews, journals, movies, and more to ensure you are citing your sources correctly.

We've done our best to be as thorough as possible. Review how to use in-text citations in MLA below or skip to the ones you need most!

How to Cite Two to Three Authors

If you're citing a book in MLA format with two or three authors, use the examples below to format your citation:

Bringham, Darrin E., and Sally Knope. Resting Heartbeat Science . 12th ed., Wiley, 2001.

Christopherson, Charles, Ronald Swanson, and Roger Koltz. Fog Pirates: On Board the USS Hammerhead . Putters, 2001.

Only the first author is listed by their last name followed by their first name. Any subsequent authors are written normally (first name then last name).

How to Cite More than Three Authors

When there are more than three authors to reference in MLA, format your citation using et al., as shown below:

Niderbacher, Leslie A., et al. Penne and the Jets: A Love Story . Partridge, 2003.

Note that only the first author is fully named, followed by et al.

Related: Learn more about How to Use Et Al. here.

How to Cite No Author

An MLA in-text citation with no author begins with the title . If your in-text citation has no author in MLA, you can also use the title in addition to the page number.

( Encyclopedia of Football 54)

How to Cite a Journal Article

Correct MLA article citation starts with finding good, credible articles. Try looking for peer-reviewed scholarly journal articles in free research databases such as CORE and ScienceOpen.

When searching for the best journals for your topic, try to steer clear of regular search engines like Google or Yahoo. Academic databases like JSTOR and Google Scholar are the best sources for scholarly, peer-reviewed articles .

MLA journal citation elements include the title of the work, author(s), and publication date. While this information is usually found on the first page of an article, its placement can vary. It may be at the top or bottom of the first page or, in the case of database articles, on the results page or the description page.

Related: Check out our list of 17 Research Databases for Free Articles .

MLA Citation for an Article

MLA Article Citation Examples

Lau, Frank. "Vitamin D Insufficiency is Prevalent in Severe COVID-19." Journal of Health , vol. 2, no. 5, Aug. 2020, pp. 34–27.

https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.04.24.20075838.

Kuehn, Bridget. "Hospitals Turn to Housing to Help Homeless Patients." JAMA , Feb. 2019, pp. 5–9.

https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2018.21476.

MLA Website Article Citation Examples

Tomky, Naomi. "Explore the Oregon Coast—but don't touch the 'dragon toes.'" National Geographic , 23 Mar. 2022,

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/explore-oregon-coast-but-dont-touch-dragon-toe-barnacles.

Gateley, Cheyne. "Netflix's Password Crackdown Will Be Tougher Than It Seems." Variety , 21 Mar. 2022,

https://variety.com/vip/netflixs-password-crackdown-will-be-tougher-than-it-seems-1235208619/.

Book Citation in MLA

If you're citing passages from a book using MLA, look at the title page of the book to find the information you need to cite the source. The title page can usually be found a couple of pages into the book. This is where you'll find the author(s), date, edition, title, editors (if any), place of publication, and publisher.

MLA Book Citation Examples

Schucman, Helen. A Course in Miracles. Edited by Robert Perry, The Circle of Atonement, Inc., 2017.

MLA Textbook Citation Examples

How to Cite an Image

Image citation in MLA requires you to first define what type of image you're sourcing. Is it an image you saw in person or an image from a website?

Asking yourself this question first will help you decide which format to use to cite your image. Let's look at a few examples below.

MLA Image Citation Examples

How to Cite an Image from a Website

To cite an image from a website in MLA, start with the image creator's last and first name, then add the image title, the website name , day, month, and year published, and the URL.

In the example below, there is no image title, so we're using a description of the image:

Yam, Marcus. Photograph of a man hurrying away from a building hit by Russian bombs. Los Angeles Times , 25 Mar. 2022,

www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2022-03-25/ukraine-russia-war-biden-heads-to-poland .

Here is an example with an image title:

Clancy, Pat. "Foggy Sunrise." Flickr , 10 Mar. 2022,

https://www.flickr.com/photos/128721907@N02/51958337614/in/explore-2022-03-24/.

MLA Citation: Interview

When citing an interview in MLA, the information you need can vary depending on the type of interview.

For example, if you're citing an interview printed in a magazine, you can find relevant citation information in the title or subtitle of the interview page.

For online interviews, the relevant information can be found on the site where the interview was published. Typically, in the title or near the name of the person who published the interview, you'll find the names of the interviewer and interviewee, as well as the date the interview was published.

Here are a few elements you'll need if you're citing an interview in MLA:

Interviewee's first and last name

Interviewer's first and last name

Interview title

Periodical or journal title (if any)

Type of interview

Date the interview was conducted/published

URL of the interview (if online)

Page numbers of the interview (if in print)

In MLA, if you can't find the author of an interview you're trying to source, this information can be skipped. Instead, you can start your citation with the title of the interview in quotation marks. You can also skip the date of the interview if it is missing, but you should still include the access date if the interview is online.

If, for any reason, you also can't access the title of the interview, MLA allows you to replace the title with a short description. Let's look at a couple of examples below.

MLA Interview Citation Examples

How to Cite a Lecture

When citing a lecture in MLA, start with the speaker's last and first names, followed by the lecture title in quotes, then the course or event name, the day, month, and year, the institution, the location, and the word "Lecture." Below is an example of how to cite a lecture in MLA.

MLA Lecture Citation Example

How to Cite a Movie in MLA

If you need to cite a movie in MLA style, you'll need the title of the film, the director, any relevant contributors, the company that produced/distributed the film, and the release year. Be sure to add the words "Directed by" before the director's name, as you'll see in the examples below.

MLA Movie Citation Examples

How to Cite a Poem

To cite a poem in MLA, begin with listing the author's last name and first, then the poem's title in quotes, followed by the title of the book the poem was found in, and the publisher, year, and page number(s).

MLA Poem Citation Examples

Quotes in MLA Format

When you're using a quote, you're taking the exact words from an original source, so you need to make sure you're citing that source correctly.

In MLA format, quotes should be cited in the main text and on the Works Cited page. Your in-text citation will need the author's last name and the page number where you found the quote , while the Works Cited page will include the full citation. We've included examples of both MLA quote citation formats below.

MLA Short Quote Citation Examples

In-text citation example:

It appears that creating "businesses that diminish the quality of life and well-being of our citizens" (Williamson 109) will only make things worse.

Works Cited example:

Williamson, Marianne. A Politics of Love . Harper One, 2019.

MLA Format for Long Quotes

If you have to cite quotes longer than four lines in your paper, you'll want to use a block quote. The MLA format is the same on the Works Cited page for long and short quotes, but block quotes look different in the main text.

Block quotes are placed in a separate paragraph, indented 1 inch from the left margin. When using a block quote in text, include the last name of the author and page number(s) in parentheses after the closing punctuation at the end of the quote.

Note that block quotes are not enclosed in quotation marks.

How to Cite a Song in MLA

When citing a song in MLA, pay close attention to the medium you used to access it. If you heard the song on a CD or on a streaming service like Spotify, you'll want to include this in your reference.

For in-text citations of songs, you'll include your citation at the end of your paraphrased portion with the last name of the performer and the specific time stamp of the song. Other elements needed for the citation on the Works Cited page include the album name, label, and release date.

MLA Song Citation Examples

How to Cite a Video

An MLA citation for a YouTube video requires a few pieces of information, including the video creator's name, the title of the video, the website hosting the video, the name of the channel or uploader, the day, month , and year the video was published, and its URL.

Regardless of the platform from which you cite a video, MLA requires the same standard information, including the creator of the video, the title, where it was found, who uploaded it, the day, month, and year it was uploaded, and the URL.

How to Cite a Website in MLA

The MLA format for websites requires a few core elements, including the author, title of the source and container, relevant contributors, version, publisher, publication date in day-month-year format, and DOI or URL .

Some of this information can be omitted if it isn't available. See the examples below.

MLA Format for Websites 

More about MLA Style and Format

Mla heading format.

When you're writing a paper in MLA format, headings go on the first page . Your heading should include the following information:

Instructor's name

Course name or number

Submission date

Your MLA heading goes in the upper left corner of your paper, double-spaced. Try not to confuse an MLA heading with an MLA header, which is in the upper right corner of every page of your paper and includes your last name and the page number.

MLA Format Heading Examples

Here are two example headings in MLA format for reference. Keep in mind that these should be double-spaced in your paper.

Cody Anderson

Professor Lockhart

Astronomy 103

23 March 2022

Raquel Smith

Professor Snape

Humanities 605

25 February 2021

MLA In-Text Citation

In the next few sections, we'll look at MLA formatting for sources cited within the main text of your paper, also called in-text citations. In-text citations give your reader a clue about where to find the source you referenced in the Works Cited section at the end of your paper.

MLA format for books requires that you briefly acknowledge your sources in the main body of the text by using the author's name and the page number in parentheses.

Note the following example:

(Clinton 440). 

The reader knows to consult page 440 of Clinton's book.

Larger Works

If you refer to the title of a large published work in your paper, such as a novel or movie, it should appear as follows:

John Clinton's A Study of Life. 

Please note the use of capital letters and italics.

Smaller Works

Titles of smaller works, such as poems, short stories, chapters, and articles, should be written in the text as follows:

Raymond Carver's "Cathedral." 

Please note that smaller works are put in quotation marks and are not italicized.

MLA Works Cited

To obtain further information, the reader can refer to the alphabetical references section, called the Works Cited page, at the end of the paper. There, the reader can find the full details of each cited publication.

Note the following MLA Works Cited example:

Clinton, John. A Study of Life . London: Hodder, 1998. Print.

Our John Clinton example is MLA style referencing in its simplest form: one author and one book. MLA citation for multiple authors of a single book and MLA citation for multiple books by a single author tend to complicate matters. However, if you have the basics right and have made good notes for all your source material, these problems are manageable.

Multiple Books by One Author

When citing two or more books by one author in your Works Cited section, MLA requires the author's name in the first entry only. In the next entry, replace the author's name with an em dash (—), a period, and the second book title. The em dash takes the place of the author's name. In terms of the order of the books by one author on your Works Cited page, alphabetize the list by title.

Brunson, Russell. DotCom Secrets . Morgan James Publishing, 2015.

—. Traffic Secrets . Hay House, Inc., 2020.

MLA Format with Multiple Authors

When citing three or more authors in MLA, you'll want to use "et al.," which means "and others."

Levine, Robert S., et al. The Norton Anthology of American Literature . 9th ed., W.W. Norton & Company, 2022.

Missing Items

If you're trying to cite a source in MLA with missing information, you have a few options available to you depending on what information is missing.

If you're missing the author of a source, use the title of the work in its place for both in-text citations and citations in the Works Cited in MLA format. If your title is also missing, use the source instead.

If your source has no page numbers, you can omit these in your citations and use paragraph or line numbers if they are available.

If the date of the publication is missing, you don't have to include it. But if it's a resource you accessed online, include the access date at the end of the citation—for example, "Accessed 14 Sep. 2021."

You can also omit the publisher if this information is missing.

MLA Format Works Cited Page Tips

When formatting your Works Cited page in MLA format, be sure to pay close attention to all the guidelines. MLA requires all lines to be double-spaced with a hanging indent. A hanging indent is when the first line of your reference starts at the beginning of the line while the next lines are indented by an inch and a half from the left.

Free Download

To keep all of these MLA examples in one sheet for easy reference, we've compiled a free download. This way, you can review MLA citation examples anytime you need them, either for your Works Cited page or in-text citations, for multiple types of work.

Once downloaded, you'll have all of the MLA citation examples you need in your back pocket. This guide will give you examples of MLA citations for the following types of sources:

Books (with one author, multiple authors, or no author)

Download our free MLA downloadable here.

Download Now   

Writing a paper in mla format.

When writing a paper in MLA format, you'll need to cover your bases when it comes to citing your sources. Not only do your sources need to be correct to account for wherever you're pulling information from, but they also need to follow MLA paper formatting basics .

So far, we've covered how to cite sources in your Works Cited list and in-text citations. Now, let's talk about how to use footnotes in an MLA paper with a couple of examples.

As a general rule, footnotes should be used sparingly in MLA. However, when they are used, there are two types: bibliographical footnotes and content footnotes.

Bibliographical footnotes allow you to add more relevant sources. Content footnotes allow you to add commentary or explanations about your topic. We'll look at examples of both of these below.

MLA Footnote Examples

Bibliographical footnote:

1 See Clinton, John. A Study of Life . Hodder, 1998. Additional references are for this edition and appear within the text.

Content footnote:

1 In a lecture from 2013, Peters mentions his love of science and how science will shape our future.

MLA Title Page Format

The MLA format cover page is not an entirely separate page. It begins with a 1-inch margin, flush left with your name, your instructor's name, the course name or number, and the date typed on separate, double-spaced lines.

The title of your research paper should then be centered on the MLA format title page. There is no need for it to be presented in bold, italics, or capital letters.

MLA Parenthetical Citation

When citing a source in your text in MLA, use a parenthetical citation. 

Parenthetical citations in MLA should include the author's last name and the page number where you found the information.

For example: (Lars 86).

MLA Page Number Format

In MLA format, page numbers appear in the top right-hand corner with a 0.5-inch margin from the top and a flush right margin. It is good practice to include your last name before the page number in case pages go astray. Do not use the abbreviation p. before the page number or add any other mark or symbol. You may not need to include a page number on the front page—check with your instructor.

Sometimes, it is appropriate to draw attention to particular words in your paper, but using italics for emphasis ("He really ate a lot ") is inappropriate in research writing and inconsistent with MLA style. Generally, in MLA format, italics should be reserved for titles of longer works (e.g., books, films), non-English words, and words and letters referred to as words and letters.

MLA Format Essay Tips

Your instructor may issue particular instructions if you are to use MLA citation in an essay—if so, follow them. Otherwise, the following MLA essay formatting tips will help you set out your research paper in MLA style.

The MLA Style Guide recommends using a clear typeface (Arial or Times New Roman) in a readable size (at least 11 point).

Justification

Justify the text to the left margin, leaving the right margin ragged. Leave 1-inch margins on the top, bottom, left, and right of the page.

Indent the first word in each paragraph by 0.5 inches. Indent set-off block quotations by 1 inch.

Use double-spacing throughout. In accordance with the MLA guide, use single spaces after periods, commas , exclamation marks, etc.

Good grammar, punctuation , and spelling are essential parts of your research paper—not just when using MLA style citation. There is no room for typos at this level. 

Our advice is to check and check again, and don't just rely on your word processor's spell-checker. Get a second pair of eyes to look over your paper. T ry our essay editors to ensure that the MLA formatting is consistent throughout your paper and there are no grammatical errors.

Related: Avoid These Common Mistakes in Academic and Scientific Writing

The importance of citing your references in your essay cannot be understated. Any time you include a piece of information in your essay that you didn't write yourself, MLA requires two forms of citation: one in the main text and one at the end of your paper in the Works Cited section.

MLA Format Essay Example

To see how all these formatting elements come together to make an MLA paper, see the example below.

https://p113.p2.n0.cdn.getcloudapp.com/items/v1ugxp7E/9e3b21d9-758c-4e27-b6cb-caa1059c0547.jpeg?v=559e925043cbfee9fe816e0568ab3d3b

Electronic Sources and MLA Formatting

In this computerized age, electronic publications are widely used as source materials for essays. However, electronic texts are prone to frequent and rapid change—one minute you see them online, and the next they are gone. Therefore, it is important to provide more information when references to electronic works are made. 

When accessing electronic information, note the following elements:

Name of the author, editor, etc.

Title of the work

Title of the website (if distinct from the title of the work)

Version/edition used, if applicable

Publisher or sponsor of the site (if not available, use n.p.)

Date of publication (day, month, and year, if available; if no date is available, use n.d.)

Medium of publication (web)

Date of access (day, month, and year)

Note the following example of MLA citation:

Smith, George. "Trees of the Southern Hemisphere." The International Leaf. Barker University, 2008. Web. 6 Feb. 2009.

Please note that the MLA formatting and style guide no longer recommends including the URL of a document. Nevertheless, the URL can be included if it is required by your instructor or if your readers will have difficulty locating the source without it.

MLA Format Letter

Below, you'll find examples of how to apply the MLA letter format. Much of the formatting will be similar to that of MLA-style papers, including using double-spaced lines in your text.

MLA Letter Heading Format

Start your MLA-formatted letter with your two-line mailing address in the upper left-hand corner, an inch from the top of the page. Skip to the next line and add the date in day-month-year format.

On the next line, include the addressee's information, starting with the recipient's title, such as Mr., Ms., or Dr. You can also include their address and contact information.

On yet another line, include your salutation—for example, "Dear Ms. Smith"—followed by a colon. If you don't have a name for the person you're writing to, use the person's title—for example, "Dear Director of Operations."

When writing a letter in MLA format, be sure to use double-spacing throughout as you would in an MLA paper.

Chicago vs. MLA vs. APA Citation

The formatting of citations varies among style guides like Chicago, MLA, and APA. While each style guide has its own way of formatting sources and cover pages, one of the biggest differences is in how they format in-text citations. Let's look at how they differ.

MLA stands for the Modern Language Association and is a style used for papers in the humanities. In-text citations in MLA use the author's last name and page number in parentheses: (Smith 15).

APA stands for the American Psychological Association and is a style used for scientific papers. In-text citations in APA style include a bit more information than those in MLA style. For example, APA uses the author's last name, year of publication, and page number: (Smith, 2021, p. 15).

Chicago style is used mainly for manuscripts by writers, designers, and publishers. In-text citations in this style include the last name of the source, the publication year, and the page number in parentheses, with slightly different formatting than APA: (Smith 2021, 15).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i cite a website in mla.

To cite a website in MLA, start with the author's last name and first name separated by a comma and punctuated with a period. Next, include the title of the article or page in headline case and in quotes with a period, followed by the title of the website in italics. After that, add a comma, the name of the publisher, the publication date in day-month-year format, and the URL.

Shields, Ronan. "'The Threat is Hollow': True Transparency is Some Way Off for Scaled Advertisers." Digiday , Digiday Media, 25

Mar.  2022, https://digiday.com/marketing/the-threat-is-hollow-true-transparency-is-some-way-off-for-scaled-advertisers/.

Basu, Tyler. "How to Build a Personal Brand (Complete Guide)." Thinkific , Thinkific, 7 Sep. 2021,

https://www.thinkific.com/blog/personal-branding-guide/.

For an MLA website in-text citation, simply put the last name of the author in parentheses: (Shields).

How Do I Cite a Journal Article in MLA?

The MLA citation for a journal article begins with the author's last name and first name separated by a comma. Next, include the title of the article in quotes, punctuated by a period, then the journal title in title case and italics, and then a comma before the volume or issue number. This is followed by the date of publication, the page range, and the DOI or URL (without https://). Finally, add the access date if no publication date is listed.

How Do I Write In-Text Citations in MLA?

In-text citations allow readers to identify which of the items on your Works Cited page you're referencing. MLA requires the source's last name to be set in parentheses, followed by the page number where you found the information. Below are a few examples of how to use in-text citations in MLA format.

(Smith and Jones 53)

(Smith et al. 33)

(Smith 56–58)

(Smith 56–58, 73)

How Do I Cite a YouTube Video in MLA?

For MLA YouTube citation, start with the video creator's last name and first name, separated by a comma and punctuated by a period. Next, include the title of the video in quotes, also punctuated by a period (inside the quotation marks). 

Add the website hosting the video in italics (in this case, YouTube), the name of the channel or uploader, and the day, month, and year the video was published. Include the URL at the end of the MLA video citation.

Forleo, Marie. "Can You Age in Reverse? Tony Robbins Says Yes." YouTube , uploaded by Marie Forleo, 14 Feb. 2022,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAb5z7NbMYk.

Snipes, Doc. "15 Tips to Stop Ruminating and Get Out of Your Head." YouTube , uploaded by Doc Snipes, 23 Mar. 2022,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMZpMtM7TkI.

How Do I Use MLA Format for Headings?

Put your MLA heading in the upper left-hand corner of the first page of your paper , double-spaced. It should have your name, your instructor's name, the course name or number, and the date. Here are two examples of how to format your headings in MLA:

How Do I Cite a Movie in MLA Format?

To cite a movie in MLA style, start with the title of the film in italics, then the name of the director, followed by any relevant contributors. Next, include the company that produced or distributed the film and the release year.

Jaws . Directed by Steven Spielberg, performances by Roy Scheider and Robert Shaw, Universal Pictures, 1975.

To cite a movie from a streaming service such as Netflix, use the following format:

Jaws . Directed by Steven Spielberg, performances by Roy Scheider and Robert Shaw, Universal Pictures, 1975. Netflix app.

How Do I Format My Paper Using MLA?

To recap the most important MLA formatting guidelines, be sure to use 1-inch margins all around your paper, set the font to 12-point Times New Roman (or another easy-to-read font), and double-space the lines in your text. Make sure each word at the start of your paragraphs is indented half an inch from the left margin, and do the same for any block quotations.

You must cite all your sources in MLA, both in the text and on the Works Cited page found at the end of your paper. Use the examples and guidelines above to make sure you're formatting your paper and citations according to MLA guidelines.

How Do I Cite a Person in MLA?

If you're citing an interview, use the last and first name of the person interviewed at the start of your MLA Works Cited citation. Then, add the interview title, periodical title, type of interview, date, and URL of the interview (if online). 

If the person you're referencing was interviewed in print, include the page numbers. 

For an in-text citation of an interview, use the last name of the person being interviewed—for example: (Smith).

Download our free MLA format PDF for more examples of how to cite a person in MLA for an interview, either one you've conducted yourself or one you found elsewhere.

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• How to setup your software
• Sample MLA Paper – normal paper
• Sample MLA Paper – has cover page
• Sample APA Paper
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• APA Format Guidelines
• MLA Format Cover Page

The Modern Language Association (MLA) does not require you to create a cover page when you complete your research paper, but some instructors may require it.

If your instructor requires your paper to have a cover page, here is how to make it (very easy). This cover page should include: your school name, your research paper title, your name, your class, your professor name and your paper due date.

How to Format Your MLA Cover Page:

• This page is double spaced and the letters are centered.
• Font: Times New Roman
• Font size: 12
• The first letter of each word should be capitalized with the exception of very short words such as: the, and, of, or, a, an, in, to, for. Note: the first letter of the first word should be capitalized, regardless of what kind of word it is.
• Type the name of your university or college.
• Skip to about one-third of the page and type your research paper title, include a subtitle if you have.
• Skip several lines down and type your name, your course name and number, your instructor name and your paper’s due date.

Sample MLA Format Cover Page:

Sample MLA Format Cover Page

Alternate First Page:

If your instructor requires a cover page, you would omit the main heading on your first page. Here is an example of the first page if a cover page is used. You still need your last name and page number on the first page and every other page.

Sample MLA Format First Page with Cover Page

Sample MLA Paper:

Visit here for a sample paper with the cover page. The cover page can vary slightly. This paper also has the outline page for your sample.

If you find this website useful, please share with a friend:

How do I get the header on the second page on down? I tried editing it but then it takes the header away from all the pages.

In word select the header then go to: Header & Footer>Page Number>Format Page Numbers>Page Numbering>Start at page>Set to 0

How do I get the header on the second page on down? I tried editing it but then it takes the header away from all the pages. I am using windows. Also, the page numbers are not working for me either. Please help me.

How should I start the page after my cover page?

https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-heading/

Thank you so much Stephen !!! Helped a lot in my written assignments 🙂

Great site ! Thank you so much. Just returned to school to complete my bachelors and needed a little refreshing. Has all the information I needed !

Thanks so much for all of the great information! I have not used MLA before and was a little panic stricken. I have found all of my answers here. This is now saved to my favorites so I can use it regularly. Thanks again!

Should the lines on the cover page be double spaced?

Thanks so much for the picture of the cover page it has helped a lot. But, I was wondering do I still need to put my Title at the top of every page after the header?

Hello Lydia. You do not.

After your cover page, your next page’s heading should look like the “Alternate First Page” above.

After the “Alternate First Page” => your next pages should have “The Inner Pages” heading: https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-heading/

Sample paper: https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-sample-paper-with-cover-page-and-outline/

hey Lydia you don’t need to but if you want to you can

Thank you so so much. I love the simplicity of the website, very easy to understand. I finally have a cover page for my paper!!

I love this website!! It helped so many times with all my essays. I’m working on a college one and this was very useful. Thank you soo much. And thanks for the examples im a visual person I needed that 🙂

Hi Kaylin, I am glad you find this site useful. Take care!

By the way (sorry i forgot!) for the coverpage, would the text font be 12 times new roman???

You can set everything 12, Times New Roman. Or you can set the Title a little larger than 12, that should work too.

In the example above, I have the title larger than 12.

Here is an example with everything set at 12.

Thank you so much for your help on this useful website! I found it very organized and I’m very glad that I came across this particular article. Thanks!!!!!!!:)

I have a question regarding the cover page and the following pages. If I have a cover page as the example provided, do I still need the heading on the next page? And should the pages after that contain my last name on the top left as the header does on the on the previous pages? or do I not need the header at all if I have the cover page and just my name?

Excellence question, Stella! I have updated this article with information on the first page if a cover page is used. Please see “Alternate First Page” above.

You can omit the main heading but you still need your last name and page number on the first page and all subsequent pages. Take care!

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• The Format of the Research Paper
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• Knowledge Base
• MLA format for academic papers and essays

MLA Format | Complete Guidelines & Free Template

Published on December 11, 2019 by Raimo Streefkerk . Revised on May 6, 2024 by Jack Caulfield.

The MLA Handbook provides guidelines for creating MLA citations and formatting academic papers. This includes advice on structuring parenthetical citations, the Works Cited page, and tables and figures. This quick guide will help you set up your MLA format paper in no time.

Cite your MLA source

Start by applying these MLA format guidelines to your document:

• Use an easily readable font like 12 pt Times New Roman
• Set 1 inch page margins
• Use double line spacing
• Include a ½” indent for new paragraphs
• Include a four-line MLA heading on the first page
• Center the paper’s title
• Use title case capitalization for headings
• Cite your sources with MLA in-text citations
• List all sources cited on a Works Cited page at the end

Alternatively, you can automatically apply the formatting with our MLA docx or Google Docs template.

Table of contents

How to set up mla format in google docs, header and title, running head, works cited page, creating mla style citations, headings and subheadings, tables and figures, frequently asked questions about mla format.

The header in MLA format is left-aligned on the first page of your paper. It includes

• Your full name
• Your instructor’s or supervisor’s name
• The course name or number
• The due date of the assignment

After the MLA header, press ENTER once and type your paper title. Center the title and don’t forget to apply title-case capitalization. Read our article on writing strong titles that are informative, striking and appropriate.

For a paper with multiple authors, it’s better to use a separate title page instead.

At the top of every page, including the first page, you need to include your last name and the page number. This is called the “running head.” Follow these steps to set up the MLA running head in your Word or Google Docs document:

• Double-click at the top of a page
• Type your last name
• Insert automatic page numbering
• Align the content to the right

The running head should look like this:

The Works Cited list is included on a separate page at the end of your paper. You list all the sources you referenced in your paper in alphabetical order. Don’t include sources that weren’t cited in the paper, except potentially in an MLA annotated bibliography assignment.

Place the title “Works Cited” in the center at the top of the page. After the title, press ENTER once and insert your MLA references.

If a reference entry is longer than one line, each line after the first should be indented ½ inch (called a hanging indent ). All entries are double spaced, just like the rest of the text.

Generate accurate MLA citations with Scribbr

Prefer to cite your sources manually? Use the interactive example below to see what the Works Cited entry and MLA in-text citation look like for different source types.

Headings and subheadings are not mandatory, but they can help you organize and structure your paper, especially in longer assignments.

MLA has only a few formatting requirements for headings. They should

• Be written in title case
• Be left-aligned
• Not end in a period

We recommend keeping the font and size the same as the body text and applying title case capitalization. In general, boldface indicates greater prominence, while italics are appropriate for subordinate headings.

Chapter Title

Section Heading

Tip: Both Google Docs and Microsoft Word allow you to create heading levels that help you to keep your headings consistent.

Tables and other illustrations (referred to as “figures”) should be placed as close to the relevant part of text as possible. MLA also provides guidelines for presenting them.

MLA format for tables

Tables are labeled and numbered, along with a descriptive title. The label and title are placed above the table on separate lines; the label and number appear in bold.

A caption providing information about the source appears below the table; you don’t need one if the table is your own work.

Below this, any explanatory notes appear, marked on the relevant part of the table with a superscript letter. The first line of each note is indented; your word processor should apply this formatting automatically.

Just like in the rest of the paper, the text is double spaced and you should use title case capitalization for the title (but not for the caption or notes).

MLA format for figures

Figures (any image included in your paper that isn’t a table) are also labeled and numbered, but here, this is integrated into the caption below the image. The caption in this case is also centered.

The label “Figure” is abbreviated to “Fig.” and followed by the figure number and a period. The rest of the caption gives either full source information, or (as in the example here) just basic descriptive information about the image (author, title, publication year).

Source information in table and figure captions

If the caption of your table or figure includes full source information and that source is not otherwise cited in the text, you don’t need to include it in your Works Cited list.

Give full source information in a caption in the same format as you would in the Works Cited list, but without inverting the author name (i.e. John Smith, not Smith, John).

MLA recommends using 12-point Times New Roman , since it’s easy to read and installed on every computer. Other standard fonts such as Arial or Georgia are also acceptable. If in doubt, check with your supervisor which font you should be using.

The main guidelines for formatting a paper in MLA style are as follows:

• Apply double line spacing
• Indent every new paragraph ½ inch

The fastest and most accurate way to create MLA citations is by using Scribbr’s MLA Citation Generator .

Search by book title, page URL, or journal DOI to automatically generate flawless citations, or cite manually using the simple citation forms.

The MLA Handbook is currently in its 9th edition , published in 2021.

This quick guide to MLA style  explains the latest guidelines for citing sources and formatting papers according to MLA.

Usually, no title page is needed in an MLA paper . A header is generally included at the top of the first page instead. The exceptions are when:

• Your instructor requires one, or
• Your paper is a group project

In those cases, you should use a title page instead of a header, listing the same information but on a separate page.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Streefkerk, R. (2024, May 06). MLA Format | Complete Guidelines & Free Template. Scribbr. Retrieved September 3, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/mla/formatting/

Is this article helpful?

Raimo Streefkerk

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What is mla style.

Building confidence in the information and ideas we share with one another is perhaps more important today than ever before, and for nearly a century it has been the driving principle behind MLA style, a set of standards for writing and documentation used by writers to find and evaluate information, alert their audience to the trustworthiness of their findings through citation, and shape the expression of their ideas in conversation with others. 

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MLA Handbook , 9th Edition

The ninth edition of the MLA Handbook , published in spring 2021, builds on the MLA's unique approach to documenting sources using a template of core elements—facts common to most sources, like author, title, and publication date—that allows writers to cite any type of work, from books, e-books, and journal articles in databases to song lyrics, online images, social media posts, dissertations, and more. With this focus on source evaluation as the cornerstone of citation, MLA style promotes the skills of information and digital literacy so crucial today. The new edition offers

• New chapters on grammar, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, numbers, italics, abbreviations, and principles of inclusive language
• Guidelines on setting up research papers in MLA format with updated advice on headings, lists, and title pages for group projects
• Revised, comprehensive, step-by-step instructions for creating a list of works cited in MLA format that are easier to learn and use than ever before
• A new appendix with hundreds of example works-cited-list entries by publication format, including websites, YouTube videos, interviews, and more
• Detailed examples of how to find publication information for a variety of sources
• Newly revised explanations of in-text citations, including comprehensive advice on how to cite multiple authors of a single work
• Detailed guidance on using notes in MLA style
• Instructions on quoting, paraphrasing, summarizing, and avoiding plagiarism
• Annotated bibliography examples
• Numbered sections throughout for quick navigation
• Advanced tips for professional writers and scholars

The MLA Style Center offers free online resources on MLA style, including an interactive MLA format template, answers to common questions on Ask the MLA, advice from the MLA editors, and more. Get updates by signing up for The Source newsletter, and follow us on X @MLAstyle .

17+ MLA Letter Format – Examples, Email Template, Wording Ideas

• Letter Format
• March 6, 2024
• Business Letters , Cover Letters , Formal Letters , Friendly Letters

MLA Letter Format : The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is commonly used for academic writing in the humanities . MLA Cover letter format is a standard format used for writing formal letters in the MLA style . This article will provide guidelines and examples for MLA letter format.

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MLA Letter Format Tips

Content in this article

General Guidelines:

• Use standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper for your Business letter .
• Use a legible font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, and a font size of 12.
• Use 1-inch margins on all sides of the page.
• Include a header with your name, instructor’s name, course title, and date in the upper left-hand corner of the first page.
• Use block format, meaning all text is left-aligned, with single-spacing within paragraphs and double-spacing between paragraphs.
• Include a closing and signature, and leave space for your signature and printed name.

Letter Components:

• Your Address: Type your name, address, phone number, and email address in the top right-hand corner of the page.
• Date: Skip a line and add the date under your address.
• Recipient’s Address: Skip another line and add the recipient’s name, title, organization or company, address, and city, state, and zip code.
• Salutation: Skip another line and add a salutation. If you don’t know the name of the person you’re writing to, use “Dear Sir or Madam.”
• Body: Skip another line and begin your letter with an introduction that briefly explains the purpose of your letter. The body of your MLA Letter Format should contain the main message you want to convey. Use clear and concise language and avoid using jargon or technical terms that your reader may not understand. You can also include any supporting evidence, such as data or examples, to strengthen your argument.
• Closing: Skip a line and add a closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” If you’re writing to someone you know well, you can use a more informal closing, such as “Take care” or “Cheers.” Follow your closing with a comma.
• Signature: Skip four lines and include your handwritten signature. If you’re sending an electronic letter, you can use a digital signature.
• Printed Name: Skip two lines and type your full name.

MLA Letter Format – Sample Format

Below is a Sample Format of MLA Letter Format:

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title, if applicable] [Company or Institution Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s Last Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin the letter with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],”. If you have a specific title for the recipient, include it in the salutation.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, ensuring that each paragraph is indented. Maintain a formal tone and structure, and use clear and concise language to convey your message.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing your main points and expressing gratitude or goodwill. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully,” followed by your signature.

[Your Full Name (Typed)] [Your Signature, if sending a physical letter]

[Note: The above template provides a general outline for a formal MLA letter. Adjust the content and formatting based on the specific context and purpose of your letter.]

MLA Letter Format – Example

Here’s an Example of MLA Letter Format:

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Recipient Name]

[Recipient Address]

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the position of [Job Title] that was recently advertised on [Source of the job advertisement]. I am a recent graduate of [Name of University] with a degree in [Your Field of Study], and I believe that my education and experience make me an ideal candidate for the role.

In addition to my academic background, I have gained valuable skills through internships and volunteer work in [Related Field]. I am particularly drawn to this position because [Reasons Why You Are Interested In This Position]. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong fit for the role.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and references for your review. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Formal Letter in MLA Style

A template for crafting formal letters in MLA style, incorporating proper formatting, structured paragraphs, and appropriate salutations and closings for clear and professional communication.

[Note: This format adheres to the MLA style for formal letters. Ensure that you follow any specific guidelines provided by your institution or publication.]

MLA Friendly Letter Format

The Modern Language Association (MLA) does not provide specific guidelines for friendly letters, as it mainly focuses on academic writing. However, you can follow a general friendly letter format with informal language, maintaining clarity and friendliness:

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s First Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin the letter with a warm greeting, mentioning your relationship or any shared experiences.

[Body Paragraphs:] Share your news, stories, or any relevant information. Keep the tone casual and friendly, allowing your personality to shine through.

[Closing Paragraph:] Wrap up the letter with a friendly closing, expressing anticipation for future communication or sharing plans to meet.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]

Remember, the key to a friendly letter is to maintain a warm and approachable tone while following basic letter-writing conventions.

MLA Letter Format – Template

This is a Template of MLA Letter Format:

I am writing to request an extension on the deadline for my [Name of Assignment] assignment. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I have been unable to complete the assignment on time, and I am hoping to request an extension until [New Deadline Date].

I understand that this may cause inconvenience, and I apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause. I assure you that I will use the additional time to ensure that the assignment is of the highest quality.

Thank you for your understanding. Please let me know if you require any further information or documentation.

MLA Style Letter to a Professor

A template for crafting a formal letter to a professor in MLA style, ensuring a respectful tone, clear structure, and adherence to academic conventions.

[Professor’s Full Name] [Department] [University Name] [University Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear Professor [Last Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin with a formal salutation, addressing the professor respectfully, such as “Dear Professor [Last Name],”.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, maintaining a formal tone and structure. Clearly state the purpose of your letter and provide any necessary context or details.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by expressing gratitude and including a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully,” followed by your signature.

[Note: Follow specific guidelines provided by your educational institution for any additional details or requirements for communication with professors using MLA style.]

MLA Format for Application Letter

A structured template for an application letter in MLA format, designed for clarity and professionalism in presenting qualifications and intentions for a job or academic position.

[Employer’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Employer’s Last Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin the letter with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],”.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, ensuring each paragraph is indented. Clearly state the purpose of your application, highlight your qualifications, and express your interest in the position.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing your main points, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity, and using a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Adapt the content based on the specific requirements of the job application and follow any additional guidelines provided by the employer or institution.]

MLA Recommendation Letter

A template for crafting a recommendation letter in MLA format, designed to convey a professional and detailed endorsement of an individual’s capabilities and attributes.

[Recipient’s Full Name] [Title, if applicable] [Institution or Company Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, maintaining a formal tone and structure. Clearly state your recommendation for the individual, providing specific examples of their qualifications, skills, and character.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing the individual’s strengths and expressing confidence in their abilities. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Follow specific guidelines provided by the institution or employer regarding the content and formatting of recommendation letters in MLA style.]

Email Format about MLA Letter format

Here’s an Email Format for MLA Letter Format:

Subject: MLA Letter Format

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to inquire about the proper MLA letter format for my upcoming assignment/job application. I am aware that MLA is mostly associated with academic writing, but I was informed that it is also appropriate for letter writing.

Could you please provide me with some guidelines or a sample of an MLA letter format that I can follow? I would greatly appreciate any assistance you can provide.

Thank you in advance for your time and help. Please let me know if you require any further information from me.

Email Format about MLA Letter Format

MLA Resignation Letter

A template for creating a resignation letter in MLA format, ensuring a clear and respectful expression of your decision to resign and gratitude for the opportunities during your tenure.

[Recipient’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],”.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, maintaining a formal tone and structure. Clearly state your intention to resign from your position, provide the effective date of your resignation, and express gratitude for the opportunities.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by expressing appreciation for the experience gained and offering assistance during the transition. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Follow specific guidelines provided by your company and ensure that the content of the letter aligns with professional standards.]

MLA Acknowledgment Letter

A template for drafting an acknowledgment letter in MLA format, designed to convey appreciation and recognition formally, adhering to clear and organized communication standards.

[Body Paragraphs:] Express your gratitude and acknowledgment in a formal tone. Clearly state the purpose of the acknowledgment, providing any necessary details.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing the acknowledgment and expressing appreciation. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Adapt the content based on the specific acknowledgment being made and follow any additional guidelines provided by the institution or organization.]

MLA Thank You Letter

A template for creating a thank-you letter in MLA format, designed to convey appreciation in a formal and organized manner, adhering to the principles of MLA style for clear and effective communication.

[Body Paragraphs:] Express your gratitude in a formal tone. Clearly state the purpose of the thank-you letter and provide specific details about why you are grateful.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing your appreciation and expressing thanks again. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Tailor the content based on the specific context and reason for expressing thanks. Follow any additional guidelines provided by the institution or organization.]

FAQS for MLA Letter Format – Examples, Email Template, Wording Ideas

How do i format a letter in mla style.

Ensure your MLA Letter Format follows MLA conventions, including proper heading, salutation, body paragraphs with indentation, and a formal closing.

Can I use MLA Letter Format for email correspondence?

While MLA Letter Format is primarily for academic writing, you can apply its principles to emails by incorporating proper formatting and maintaining a professional tone.

Are there specific guidelines for addressing recipients in MLA Letter Format?

Yes, This MLA Letter Format address recipients formally using titles (Mr., Ms., Dr.) and include their last name in the salutation (e.g., “Dear Dr. Smith”).

What is the recommended font and size for MLA Letter Format?

Use a legible font like Times New Roman or Arial, size 12, for MLA Letter Format to ensure readability and adherence to MLA style.

Can I include bullet points or lists in An MLA Letter Format?

MLA Letter Format generally prefers narrative writing, but if the content benefits from lists, use clear and concise bullet points, ensuring they follow MLA conventions for formatting.

MLA Letter Format is a standard format used for writing formal letters in the MLA style . By following the guidelines and examples provided in this article, you can write a clear and concise letter that conveys your message effectively .

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Home / Guides / Citation Guides / MLA Format / Creating an MLA title page

Creating an MLA title page

If you are writing a research paper in MLA style 9th edition for a class, then you may need to include an MLA format title page. An MLA title page is the cover of your paper, and they aren’t always required. So, how do you make a title page that adheres to the MLA formatting guidelines, and how do you know when you need one?

This page contains all the information you need to know to make the perfect MLA title page, so that you can prove that you are an expert researcher and get the best possible grade. This MLA sample paper will show you how the rest of your paper should be formatted.

Here’s a run-through of everything this page includes:

Title page vs. MLA heading on first page

Title page / cover page, first page: mla heading (no title page), troubleshooting.

The current edition of the Modern Language Association (MLA) handbook does not require a title page , but your teacher, professor, or other reader may require one. In this case, you will need to know the differences between a title page and an MLA heading, and which one to use depending on your reader’s preferences. Other citation styles look slightly different, like this   APA title page .

A title page, or a cover page, is a single page that comes before your MLA abstract (if required) and the content of your paper. It introduces your paper and quickly shows a reader the following information about your paper:

• author name (your name, since you wrote the paper)
• course information (if applicable)

It does not include any of the research paper itself.

First page with MLA heading 

MLA format recommends adding an MLA heading to the first page of your paper. This contains the same information as a title page, but the information is formatted differently and is on the same page on which your actual research paper begins.

Unless otherwise specified by your instructor or teacher, this should be how you format your first page.

Before you start typing your MLA research paper title page, you will need to gather some information.

What you will need

If you are creating an MLA heading on the first page of your essay instead of a title page, you will need most of the same information, but you will format it differently.

To create a title page, you need to include:

• The name of your high school, college, or university (if applicable)
• The title of your paper
• The subtitle of your paper (if you have one)
• Your first and last name
• Your teacher or professor’s name (if applicable)
• The class name or course number (if applicable)
• The date the paper is due (in “day month year” format)

Formatting guidelines

Follow these formatting guidelines when typing your MLA title page:

• Double-spaced
• Times New Roman font
• Size 12 font
• The first letter of each word should be capitalized, with the exception of very short words such as the, and, of, or, a, an, for, in , etc.  However, the first word should always be capitalized.
• Do not include a page number heading on your title page

Step-by-step instructions

Here are the steps you need to take to create the perfect MLA title page:

• At the top of the page, type the name of your high school, college, or university (if applicable).
• Skip down approximately one-third of the page and type the title of your research paper using title case.
• If you have a subtitle, type it on the line following the paper title.
• Skip down to the bottom third of the page and type your first and last name.
• On the following line, type the course name and number (if applicable).
• On the following line, type your instructor’s name (if applicable).
• On the following and final line, type the due date of your paper in “day month year” format.

Although it’s important to know how to create an MLA essay title page in case your instructor requires it, in most cases you will use an MLA heading on the first page of your paper instead.

Remember, you should only create a title page if your instructor requests it .

Otherwise, use these guidelines to create an MLA heading. If you create a title page, then you usually won’t need an MLA heading on your first page, but you should ask your instructor for their specific requirements.

To create an MLA heading on your first page, you will need to include some of the same information you would use for a title page, including:

• Left-justified text for MLA header
• Centered text for title
• Right-justified text for page number header
• In the top left corner of the first page of your essay, type your first and last name.
• On the following line, type the due date of your paper in “day month year” format.
• On the following line, switch from left-justified text to centered text and type the title (and the subtitle on the same line, if you have one) of your paper in title case. Do not italicize, underline, or place your essay title in quotation marks. Do not use quotation marks unless you are referring to other works in your title and need to enclose the referenced works in quotation marks.
• Your research paper should begin on the following double-spaced line.
• Create a right-justified text header one-half inch from the top of your paper that includes your last name and the page number.
• All pages of your paper should be numbered with your last name and the numerical page number. The page including your MLA header, title, and the beginning of your essay is page one (1).
• Your instructor may specify not to include a last name and page number header on your first page. Always follow your instructor’s guidelines.

Solution #1: What should I do if my paper is a group project?

If you have written a collaborative paper with multiple authors, list each author on your MLA title page or in your MLA heading in alphabetical order, with line breaks between each.

If your paper has multiple authors, omit the name from your page numbers in the upper-right corner of your MLA-format paper.

Example MLA heading for a group paper:

Example MLA title page for a group paper:

Solution #2: What should I do if my paper isn’t for a specific class?

If your paper is a thesis project for your degree, for example, or not for a specific class, you can omit that information from your MLA title page or MLA header.

Solution #3: Does my paper need a subtitle if I use a full MLA title page?

While an MLA title page allows for a subtitle beneath the title of your paper, it is NOT required to have a subtitle or make one up for your MLA title page.

If you didn’t intend to have a subtitle for your paper, there is no need to add a subtitle. Just leave that area of your MLA title page blank.

Solution #4: Will my MLA title page be part of my final page count?

A title page is not typically included in a paper’s final word count. Check with the teacher or professor assigning the paper to be sure, but it is highly unlikely a title page will count as a full page of your final paper.

Published October 25, 2020. Updated June 4, 2021

Written by Grace Turney , freelance writer and artist. Grace is a former librarian and has a Master’s degree in Library Science and Information Technology.

MLA Formatting Guide

MLA Formatting

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• View all MLA Examples

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The title page in MLA style gives basic information such as the name, the instructor’s name, the course name and number, the title of the paper, and the submission date. MLA style does not recommend using a title page unless specifically requested by your instructor; instead, it suggests creating a header.

The difference between a title page and a header in MLA style is that a title page appears as a page on its own before the main paper copy. A header, on the other hand, appears on the same page where paper copy begins.

Include the following elements on a title page. Follow the order as given below.

The university name

The title and subtitle of the paper

The course name and number

The instructor’s name

The submission/due date

If you are not required to create a title page, and only need a header, the following elements should be included in the header, in the order as listed:

While MLA does not generally recommend the use of a title page, some courses or professors may require it. The title page should include the university name, title of the paper, your name, the instructor’s name, the course name, and the submission or due date.

Formatting title page

MLA style does not have any specific guidelines for formatting a title page. However, you can use the below suggestions to format your title page if you are required to create one for your paper.

Page margins

All margins (top, bottom, left, and right) should be set at 1 inch.

The font should be clear and easy to read. A good option is Times New Roman font in size 12 pt.

Text on the title page should be double-spaced.

Elements of a title page

Include the following elements on the title page. Follow the order as given below.

Add a few blank lines before and after the title of the work. The title should be in title case and centered.

Beginning on the title page, the paper should also include a running head. The running head includes the your last name and the page number. This should be placed in the “header” area of the paper so that it is present on each page. Use the page number feature in your word processor so that the page number is generated automatically.

Example title page

Chegg University

Relationship Between Students and Their Teachers

Ishithaa Gopi

Psychology 127

Professor John Smith

21 September 2021

MLA Citation Examples

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Endnotes and Footnotes

Read our guide about using notes in MLA style.

Set Up Your Paper

Setting up a research paper.

Get our guidelines for setting up academic research papers.

Formatting Captions

Learn how to format captions.

Sample Papers

Read sample papers written in MLA style.

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Essay Cover Letter

Cover letter maker.

An Essay Cover Letter is more than a formality; it’s an opportunity to impress. Whether you’re submitting an academic essay or looking for a publication opportunity, the cover letter serves as your first impression. This article sheds light on what an Essay Cover Letter is, provides insightful examples, and offers valuable tips to make your cover letter stand out.

What is an Essay Cover Letter?

An Essay Cover Letter is a brief introduction accompanying an essay, typically submitted to an academic institution or a publication. It summarizes the content and purpose of the essay, highlights the writer’s qualifications, and expresses the intention behind submitting the essay. It’s a personalized note that connects the reader to the writer, setting the tone for the content that follows.

What is an Example of an Essay Cover Letter?

Here’s an generic cover letter example for an Essay Cover Letter tailored for an academic submission:

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Professor’s Name] [Department] [University Name] [University Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Professor’s Name],

I am submitting my essay entitled “[Title of the Essay]” for consideration in your [Course Name] class. This essay explores [Brief Summary of the Essay Content], drawing on [Methodology or Sources Used].

As a student majoring in [Your Major], I have thoroughly researched the subject matter and applied critical thinking skills to provide a comprehensive analysis of [Specific Topic]. I believe this essay aligns with the course objectives and will contribute valuable insights to the class discussions.

Please find the essay attached for your review. I look forward to receiving your feedback and am available for any questions or further clarification.

Thank you for considering my submission.

[Your Signature]

[Your Full Name] [Student ID]

This example outlines the essential elements of an effective Essay Cover Letter, maintaining a formal tone and providing specific details about the essay and the writer’s qualifications.

Size: 26 KB

Free Essay Cover Letters – Copy & Paste

Essay cover letter format.

This example represents the standard format that an Essay Cover Letter should follow. The below template can be customized according to your needs.

[Your Full Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Phone Number] [Email Address] [Date]

[Recipient’s Full Name] [Recipient’s Title] [Organization/University Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

[Opening Paragraph: Introduction and reason for writing]

[Body Paragraph(s): Details about the essay, your qualifications, and why your essay fits the context]

[Closing Paragraph: Thank you note and contact information]

[Signature (if printed)] [Typed Full Name]

Customize the bracketed sections with your specific details. Make sure to include an introduction, details about the essay, and a closing thank you note.

Sample Essay Cover Letter Example

This is a  good cover letter  sample that can be adapted to any essay submission.

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to submit my essay titled “[Essay Title]” for [Purpose of Submission]. My essay explores [Topic], and I believe it offers a fresh perspective on [Specific Aspect].

[Body Paragraph detailing the approach, sources, and relevance of the essay]

Thank you for considering my work. I look forward to your feedback.

Best Regards, [Your Name]

This sample is adaptable. Fill in the brackets with specific details about your essay and the submission context.

Size: 25 KB

Short Essay Cover Letter

Ideal for submissions with a strict word count limit.

Enclosed is my essay “[Essay Title],” written for [Purpose]. It delves into [Topic], and I hope it contributes to [Specific Field or Discussion].

Thank you, [Your Name]

This short version is perfect when brevity is required. It gets straight to the point but remains polite and professional.

Size: 22 KB

Essay Cover Letter for College Student Example

Specifically designed  cover letter for college students submitting essays for class or applications.

[Your Name] [College] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Date]

[Professor’s Name] [Department] [College] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

I’m submitting my essay on [Subject] for your [Course Name]. As a [Major] student, I found this topic particularly intriguing because [Reason].

[Details about the essay and any specific request for feedback]

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name] [Student ID]

Customize this template to reflect the course details, your major, and specifics about your essay. It maintains a tone suitable for academic correspondence.

Size: 24 KB

MLA Style Essay Cover Letter Example

For submissions requiring MLA citation style.

[Your Name] [Professor’s Name] [Course] [Date]

[Title of Essay]

[Essay Introduction]

Sincerely, [Your Name]

This template is formatted according to the MLA style and should be used for submissions requiring this citation method.

Size: 21 KB

APA Style Essay Cover Letter Example

This is suitable for submissions that require APA formatting.

[Your Name] [Institution] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Date]

[Recipient’s Name] [Title] [Organization] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

I am submitting my essay titled “[Essay Title],” written in accordance with the APA citation style, for [Purpose].

[Body Paragraphs detailing the essay, its relevance, and your qualifications]

Use this template for submissions that require adherence to the APA citation style.

Simple Essay Cover Letter Example

This is a minimalist version suitable for any essay submission.

I’m submitting my essay “[Essay Title]” for [Purpose]. It examines [Topic] through [Methodology/Approach].

This simple version is versatile and can be used for various submission contexts.

Size: 23 KB

Basic Essay Cover Letter Example

Another minimalist & basic cover letter template, focused on academic submissions.

[Your Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Date]

Attached is my essay for your [Course Name], titled “[Essay Title].”

This basic format is tailored to academic submissions and maintains a formal tone.

Essay Cover Letter for Admission Example

Ideal for students submitting essays as part of a college application.

[Your Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Phone Number] [Email Address] [Date]

[Admission Officer’s Name] [College/University Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Admission Officer’s Name],

I’m thrilled to submit my essay for consideration as part of my application to [College/University Name]. My essay, titled “[Essay Title],” reflects my passion for [Field of Study] and my commitment to [College/University Values or Goals].

[More details about the essay, your qualifications, and why you chose this particular institution]

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Full Name]

This template can be tailored to the specific college or university application, highlighting your alignment with the institution’s values or goals.

Persuasive Essay Cover Letter Example

For submitting persuasive essays specifically.

I am submitting my persuasive essay titled “[Essay Title].” This piece aims to convince readers about [Argument/Thesis] and is supported by [Evidence/Methodology].

[Further details about the essay, its relevance, and your qualifications]

Use this template when submitting a persuasive essay, emphasizing the argument and evidence.

History Essay Cover Letter Example

For history-related essays and submissions.

[Professor/Recipient’s Name] [Title/Department] [Institution/Organization] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Professor/Recipient’s Name],

I am submitting my historical analysis titled “[Essay Title].” Drawing from primary sources, this essay explores [Historical Event or Period], offering new insights into [Specific Aspect or Perspective].

[More details about the essay, its relevance to the field of history, and your qualifications]

This template is tailored to history essays, with emphasis on the sources and historical analysis.

Size: 266 KB

Research Paper Cover Letter Example

This Research Paper cover letter is Ideal for research paper submissions to journals or academic conferences.

[Your Name] [Title] [Institution] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Date]

[Editor’s Name] [Journal Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Editor’s Name],

I am submitting my research paper titled “[Paper Title]” for consideration in [Journal Name]. My research focuses on [Research Area], and I believe it offers significant contributions to the field.

[Further details about the research, methodology, and relevance to the journal’s readership]

Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Title] [Contact Information]

Use this template for research paper submissions, making sure to tailor it to the specific journal or conference requirements.

What do you write in an Essay Cover Letter?

An Essay Cover Letter is more than a formality; it’s a chance to present your essay in the best possible light. Here’s what to include:

– Your Contact Information: Always include your full name, address, phone number, and email so the recipient can easily reach you. – Recipient’s Information: Address the cover letter to a specific person, if possible, including their title and address. – Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself, your academic or professional background, and explain the purpose of your essay. – Summary of the Essay: Offer a concise summary of your essay’s main topic, argument, or thesis. Avoid revealing too much, but give the reader a taste of what’s to come. – Relevance: Detail why your essay is relevant to the reader, whether it’s a professor, admissions officer, or publication editor. – Your Qualification and Interest: Share your qualifications or experiences that make you the right person to write this essay, along with why the topic interests you. – A Closing Statement: Express gratitude for the reader’s time and consideration, and include information on how they can contact you. – Signature: Include a formal closing, followed by your signature (for a hard copy) or typed name (for an email).

How Do You Write a Cover Letter for an Essay?

Writing an Essay Cover Letter requires understanding and careful crafting. Here’s how you can write one:

– Identify the Audience: Know your reader and adjust your tone and content to match their expectations. – Choose the Right Format: Standard letter format works well, but make sure to adhere to any specific guidelines provided. – Write Clearly: Use clear and concise language without oversimplifying your points. – Highlight Key Points: Emphasize the primary arguments or findings without merely repeating the essay. – Express Your Passion and Relevance: Your interest in the topic should shine through, and the relevance of the essay should be clear to the reader. – Edit Thoroughly: Check for grammatical and spelling mistakes, and consider having someone else review it.

Tips for Writing an Essay Cover Letter

– Maintain Consistency: The cover letter’s style and tone should match the essay. – Avoid Redundancy: Don’t repeat the entire essay; summarize and complement it instead. – Use Proper Formatting: If your essay follows APA or MLA guidelines, mirror this in the cover letter. – End Strongly: Conclude with a respectful closing and a clear call to action.

Crafting an Essay Cover Letter is an essential skill that requires attention to detail, a clear understanding of the purpose of the essay, and an ability to connect with the reader. With thoughtful consideration and following these guidelines, you can write a cover letter that not only introduces your essay effectively but also creates a positive initial impression.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write a cover letter for a college student applying for an internship at an educational technology company

Form a cover letter for a high school student seeking a part-time job at a local bookstore.

• How To Setup Your Software
• Motivational Stories
• Funny Jokes
• Memory Techniques

MLA Format Sample Paper, with Cover Page and Outline

Here is a sample paper in MLA format that has both the cover page and the outline pages . This paper has 10 pages so if you are under a slow Internet connection, please wait a few seconds for all of the pages to load. This paper is current with the latest MLA manual.

MLA Format Sample Paper, Title Page

MLA Format Sample Paper, Outline Page 1

MLA Format Sample Paper, Outline Page 2

MLA Format Sample Paper, Page 1

MLA Format Sample Paper, Page 2

MLA Format Sample Paper, Page 3

MLA Format Sample Paper, Page 4

MLA Format Sample Paper, Page 5

MLA Format Sample Paper, Works Cited

MLA Format Sample Paper, End of Sample Paper.

– Diana Hacker (Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2006).

Very helpful information.

Intructions are clear in the begining.

Thank you, This will certainly help with assignments

I don’t care

Concise and easy to understand example. Thank you for your effort.

I am an older student returning to college and this helped me so much.

I didn’t have a clue what this format was, now I do. Thank you for your help.

Thank you for this resource; I am teaching MLA formatting to high school students and this will help with the “Why do we have to do it this way?!” questions. I just update them on the 8th edition changes.

The only way to achieve happiness is to cherish what you have and forget what you don’t have

thank you so much for your reference!

Thank you! I found your outline super helpful!

Awesome! Thank you so much. This information was so helpful. 🙂

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Next post: APA Format Title Page

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• How to Format the Research Paper
• MLA Format Cover Page
• MLA Format Headings
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• MLA Format Works Cited
• MLA Format Sample Paper
• MLA Sample Paper w/ Cover & Outline Pages
• MLA Format FAQs
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• APA Format Title Page
• APA Format Abstract Page
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MLA General Format 

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MLA Style specifies guidelines for formatting manuscripts and citing research in writing. MLA Style also provides writers with a system for referencing their sources through parenthetical citation in their essays and Works Cited pages. 

Writers who properly use MLA also build their credibility by demonstrating accountability to their source material. Most importantly, the use of MLA style can protect writers from accusations of plagiarism, which is the purposeful or accidental uncredited use of source material produced by other writers. 

If you are asked to use MLA format, be sure to consult the  MLA Handbook  (9th edition). Publishing scholars and graduate students should also consult the  MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing  (3rd edition). The  MLA Handbook  is available in most writing centers and reference libraries. It is also widely available in bookstores, libraries, and at the MLA web site. See the Additional Resources section of this page for a list of helpful books and sites about using MLA Style.

Paper Format

The preparation of papers and manuscripts in MLA Style is covered in part four of the  MLA Style Manual . Below are some basic guidelines for formatting a paper in  MLA Style :

General Guidelines

• Type your paper on a computer and print it out on standard, white 8.5 x 11-inch paper.
• Double-space the text of your paper and use a legible font (e.g. Times New Roman). Whatever font you choose, MLA recommends that the regular and italics type styles contrast enough that they are each distinct from one another. The font size should be 12 pt.
• Leave only one space after periods or other punctuation marks (unless otherwise prompted by your instructor).
• Set the margins of your document to 1 inch on all sides.
• Indent the first line of each paragraph one half-inch from the left margin. MLA recommends that you use the “Tab” key as opposed to pushing the space bar five times.
• Create a header that numbers all pages consecutively in the upper right-hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor may ask that you omit the number on your first page. Always follow your instructor's guidelines.)
• Use italics throughout your essay to indicate the titles of longer works and, only when absolutely necessary, provide emphasis.
• If you have any endnotes, include them on a separate page before your Works Cited page. Entitle the section Notes (centered, unformatted).

Formatting the First Page of Your Paper

• Do not make a title page for your paper unless specifically requested or the paper is assigned as a group project. In the case of a group project, list all names of the contributors, giving each name its own line in the header, followed by the remaining MLA header requirements as described below. Format the remainder of the page as requested by the instructor.
• In the upper left-hand corner of the first page, list your name, your instructor's name, the course, and the date. Again, be sure to use double-spaced text.
• Double space again and center the title. Do not underline, italicize, or place your title in quotation marks. Write the title in Title Case (standard capitalization), not in all capital letters.
• Use quotation marks and/or italics when referring to other works in your title, just as you would in your text. For example:  Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas  as Morality Play; Human Weariness in "After Apple Picking"
• Double space between the title and the first line of the text.
• Create a header in the upper right-hand corner that includes your last name, followed by a space with a page number. Number all pages consecutively with Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor or other readers may ask that you omit the last name/page number header on your first page. Always follow instructor guidelines.)

Here is a sample of the first page of a paper in MLA style:

The First Page of an MLA Paper

Section Headings

Writers sometimes use section headings to improve a document’s readability. These sections may include individual chapters or other named parts of a book or essay.

MLA recommends that when dividing an essay into sections you number those sections with an Arabic number and a period followed by a space and the section name.

MLA does not have a prescribed system of headings for books (for more information on headings, please see page 146 in the MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing , 3rd edition). If you are only using one level of headings, meaning that all of the sections are distinct and parallel and have no additional sections that fit within them, MLA recommends that these sections resemble one another grammatically. For instance, if your headings are typically short phrases, make all of the headings short phrases (and not, for example, full sentences). Otherwise, the formatting is up to you. It should, however, be consistent throughout the document.

If you employ multiple levels of headings (some of your sections have sections within sections), you may want to provide a key of your chosen level headings and their formatting to your instructor or editor.

Sample Section Headings

The following sample headings are meant to be used only as a reference. You may employ whatever system of formatting that works best for you so long as it remains consistent throughout the document.

Formatted, unnumbered:

Level 1 Heading: bold, flush left

Level 2 Heading: italics, flush left

Level 3 Heading: centered, bold

Level 4 Heading: centered, italics

Level 5 Heading: underlined, flush left