How to Do MLA Format on Office 365 Word
Creating an MLA formatted paper on Office 365 Word is easier than it sounds. This guide will show you how to set up your paper with the correct margins, header, font, line spacing, and citations. Follow these steps to ensure your paper meets all the MLA requirements, making it look professional and polished.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Do MLA Format on Office 365 Word
By following these steps, you will be able to format your document in MLA style using Office 365 Word. Each step is designed to walk you through a part of the formatting process.
Step 1: Open a New Document
Open Office 365 Word and start a new blank document.
Starting a new document ensures you are beginning with a clean slate. This avoids any formatting issues that might carry over from previous documents.
Step 2: Set the Margins to 1 Inch
Go to the "Layout" tab, click on "Margins," and select "Normal" to set 1-inch margins on all sides.
This step ensures your document has the standard MLA margin size, which is crucial for a neat and professional appearance.
Step 3: Set the Font to Times New Roman, 12 pt
Navigate to the "Home" tab and select "Times New Roman" from the font dropdown menu, then set the size to 12.
Times New Roman, 12 pt is the preferred font and size for MLA format, ensuring your text is readable and consistent throughout.
Step 4: Double-Spacing the Entire Document
In the "Home" tab, click on the "Line and Paragraph Spacing" button and select "2.0."
Double-spacing is a key MLA requirement that makes your document easier to read and provides space for any handwritten notes from instructors.
Step 5: Set Up the Header
Go to the "Insert" tab, click on "Header," and choose the blank option. Type your last name followed by a space, and then insert the page number.
This header format is necessary for MLA style, helping to keep track of the pages and identifying your work.
Step 6: Add the Proper Heading
On the first page, type your name, your instructor’s name, the course name, and the date (day, month, year format) in the upper left corner.
This step establishes the heading that MLA formatting requires, providing essential information about the paper’s author and context.
Step 7: Center the Title
After the heading, press enter and center your title.
This positions your title correctly, ensuring your paper has a clean and organized look from the beginning.
Step 8: Indent the First Line of Each Paragraph
Press the "Tab" key once at the beginning of each paragraph to indent.
Indentation helps to clearly separate paragraphs, making your paper easier to read and follow.
Step 9: Create a Works Cited Page
At the end of your document, insert a new page and title it "Works Cited." List your citations in alphabetical order, double-spaced, with a hanging indent.
A properly formatted Works Cited page is crucial for giving credit to your sources and avoiding plagiarism.
After completing these steps, your document will be properly formatted in MLA style. Your paper will have the correct margins, font, spacing, header, and citations, meeting all the requirements of MLA formatting.
Tips on How to Do MLA Format on Office 365 Word
- Always double-check your margins to ensure they are set to 1 inch on all sides.
- Use the "Tab" key for indents instead of spaces; it’s more precise.
- Keep an eye on formatting while writing to avoid any last-minute fixes.
- Regularly update the "Works Cited" page as you add new sources.
- Utilize Word’s citation tools for managing references more efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I create a hanging indent for my Works Cited page?
Highlight the citations, right-click, select "Paragraph," and under "Special," choose "Hanging."
What line spacing should I use in MLA format?
Double-spacing is required for all parts of your MLA formatted document.
Can I use a different font for MLA format?
Times New Roman, 12 pt, is the recommended font, but another legible font like Arial may be acceptable if permitted by your instructor.
How should I format the date in the heading?
Write the date in the order of day, month (spelled out), and year.
How do I insert page numbers?
Use the "Insert" tab, click on "Page Number," and choose the top-right option.
Summary
- Open a new document.
- Set margins to 1 inch.
- Set font to Times New Roman, 12 pt.
- Double-space the entire document.
- Set up the header with your last name and page number.
- Add the proper heading.
- Center the title.
- Indent the first line of each paragraph.
- Create a Works Cited page with hanging indent.
Conclusion
Formatting your paper in MLA style using Office 365 Word may seem like a daunting task at first, but breaking it down into steps makes it manageable. By following the detailed instructions provided, you can ensure your paper meets all MLA standards and looks professional.
Remember, attention to detail is key. Each element, from margins to font size, plays a crucial role in presenting your work in the best possible light. Don’t forget to regularly save your document as you go to avoid losing any progress.
If you’re still unsure about any part of the formatting process, there are plenty of resources available online for further reading. Many instructional videos and tutorials can provide additional guidance. Now that you have the basics down, go ahead and start typing your MLA formatted paper with confidence!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.