MLA, short for Modern Language Association format, is applicable to various types of writing. With the growing digitization of texts and the availability of the same content across multiple platforms, rigid formatting standards have become less practical.
The current system is conceptually driven and organized by documentation method rather than source material. This approach offers flexibility and widespread applicability.
Once you've mastered this method, you can apply it to any source, paper, or field.
Checklist
According to Expertsminds, here are the key rules of MLA style that you should keep in mind:
Set one-inch margins on all sides.
Use 12-point Times New Roman font.
Apply double spacing throughout the document.
Center the title on the page.
Include your name, instructor's name, course, and due date, left-aligned on the first page.
Indent the first line of each paragraph by half an inch.
Add a one-inch margin before each block quotation.
Place your last name and page number in the header of every page.
Format the "Works Cited" page with hanging indents.
While Microsoft Word is commonly used, Google Docs can save you considerable time. Accessible online, it offers a broader range of convenient and user-friendly formatting options compared to Word.
Basic Format
In Google Docs, you need to set one-inch margins on all four sides before starting your document. Important Role of Referencing Styles: Proper formatting ensures consistency and adherence to academic standards. To do this, follow these steps:
Navigate to "File" and select "Page setup." Adjust the top, bottom, left, and right margins to 1 inch and apply these settings to the "Whole document." Confirm your choices by clicking "OK.
Contrary to popular belief, MLA style does not mandate the use of Times New Roman. Any legible font is acceptable. However, many writers prefer Times New Roman due to its serif design. Serif fonts, characterized by thin lines or strokes at the edges of each letter, are known to enhance readability, particularly for extended text.
To begin your draft, open the font drop-down menu and select your preferred font style. Times New Roman is typically located near the bottom of the list.

Adjust the font size using the +/- buttons next to the font tool as needed. In MLA style, ensure that all body text is double-spaced for proper formatting.
To efficiently double-space your text, navigate to "Format" and select "Line & paragraph spacing." From the available options, choose "Double.
More Details
After adding headers and a title, writing will be a breeze.
MLA-formatted documents require your last name to appear before each page number. Google Docs can automatically number and format pages for you. Follow the provided instructions to add your surname, page number, and any additional details.
Select "Insert" from the menu bar.
Click "Page numbers" and choose the option for numbering in the upper-left corner.
On the first page, add your last name before the page number. Google Docs will then automatically apply this format to all subsequent pages.
Remember, your header must include your full name, the instructor's name, the course name, and the date.
The title of your paper should be centered using the text alignment option.
To indent each paragraph, press the Tab key at the beginning of the paragraph, including the first one, to create a half-inch indent as required.
An essential part of MLA style is the Works Cited page, which lists the sources referenced in your paper.
Following the alphabetical order, the Works Cited Page: Basic Format by Purdue outlines how to format citations based on the source's origin, type, and medium.
If you need assistance with your course or help finding other academic papers, you can find resources here.

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