essay

Jane Student

English 99

04 September 2009

Catchy Essay Title

To set up your essay, choose 1” margins on all sides, including the top and bottom margin. To do this, choose File from the top menu in Microsoft Word, then Page setup, and then set your margins in the box provided. You will probably need to do this every time you type a new essay, as Microsoft Word defaults to 1.25”. Next, set up your double spacing by choosing Format, then selecting Paragraph from the drop-down menu. Set your spacing to double in the box that pops up. Finally, set your page numbers. First, choose View. Next, select Header and Footer. Then, in the narrow box that pops up, right justify your text. Type your last name and select “Insert Page Number” button to enter a page number on every page, including the first page. You do not need a cover page in MLA format. The heading that you see on the upper left-hand corner only belongs on the first page; the following pages will begin at the top of the page. In order to meet a page requirement, your writing must meet the bottom of the page. This handout would not be considered a full page.

Please note that you must have an original title for your essay. The title does not have to have any special formatting, so no bold, underline or fancy fonts. Indent your paragraphs using the tab key to bring them ½”. Do not add an extra space between paragraphs. If you have any further questions, a section on the MLA format can be found in your course handbook.