How to Create a Header in MLA Style?

Following the Modern Language Association (MLA) guidelines is important when writing an academic paper or research project. This includes formatting your document with a proper header. A header in MLA style serves as a way to identify your document and provide essential information for readers.

It also follows a specific format that is required by MLA style. This guide will discuss creating a header in MLA style and provide tips for formatting it correctly.

What is a Header in MLA Style?

A header in MLA style is placed at the top right corner of each page of your document. It includes your last name and the page number, separated by a space. The purpose of this header is to make it easier for readers to identify your work and locate specific pages.

MLA Heading vs. MLA Header Examples

MLA headings are located on the initial page and offer identifying details. On the other hand, MLA headers are identifiers that can be found on every page of your paper. Note that the information included in MLA headings and headers may differ depending on your instructor's preference or requirements. Below are examples of both:

MLA Heading Example:

John Smith

Professor Brown

English 1010

14 September 2021

MLA Header Example:

Smith 1

How do you write a header in MLA style?

You need to follow specific steps for writing a header in MLA style in MS Word and Google Docs. So, let's see how to do that:

1: Creating MLA Header in Google Docs

If you can't access Microsoft Word, you can still create an MLA running header using Google Docs.

1. Click on "Insert" in the toolbar.

2. Scroll down to Header.

3. Click on the alignment option.

4. Choose the right-aligned option.

5. Click on the Insert.

6. Choose Page numbers in Insert.

7. Choose right-aligned.

8. Click on the page number, and type your last name, e.g., XYZ.

9. Click on Font.

10. Scroll down the Font option.

11. Choose your font.

12. Choose the type size.

2: Creating MLA Header in MS Word

In the same way as you did for Google Docs, you can add an MLA header in MS Word. To add a page number at the top of the page, first click on Insert. Then, select Page Number and choose the option for Top of Page, aligning it to the right.

Next, please select the header and include your surname before the number. Finally, ensure that the font and size match the rest of your article by checking and verifying their consistency.

Formatting a Paper in MLA Style

To format a paper in MLA style, you should follow these guidelines:

• Choose an easily readable font, such as Times New Roman in 12-point size.
• Set the page margins to 1 inch.
• Apply double-line spacing throughout the paper.
• On the first page, include a four-line MLA heading.
• Center the title of the paper.
• Indent every new paragraph by ½ inch.
• Use title case capitalization for headings.
• Include MLA in-text citations to cite your sources.
• At the end of the paper, create a Works Cited page listing all the sources cited.

Creating an MLA Header with Multiple Authors

When working on a group project and needing to list multiple authors for your paper, MLA style advises against using a regular header. Instead, it recommends creating a separate title page.

Each author's name on this page should be listed separately, followed by the usual information, such as the instructor's name, course name and number, and submission date. The paper's title should be written halfway down the page, centered.

The actual text of the paper should start on the next page. For more detailed guidance, you can refer to the Scribbr website.

Conclusion

Creating an MLA header in MS Word and Google Docs is relatively straightforward. The key is to follow the given steps accurately. Remember to include your surname before the page number and ensure that the font and size are consistent with the rest of your document. This header will help your paper stay organized and easily identifiable.