In this article, we will learn about MLA format and how you can use MLA formats using Google Docs.
Google Docs is one of the most well-known word processors around the globe. One of the main reasons for its popularity is its simplicity of use, which allows anyone to begin making documents in a matter of minutes. However, it doesn’t end there, as it comes with numerous features which can be utilized to create documents with a professional appearance that is more stunning than Microsoft Word. One of the features that Google Docs offers is MLA format to generate research papers using Google Docs.
The research essay is a piece of writing that requires you to analyze sources and then apply the outcomes of your analysis. You must cite every citation correctly to ensure that the paper you write is entirely precise. MLA formatting with Google Docs is not that difficult if you use it correctly. If you’re struggling to understand the correct MLA formatting, this guide will help you know how to use it in this tutorial!
What is the MLA Format?
MLA is the acronym for the Modern Language Association. Based on the MLA website, It’s a group that began in 1883 to “strengthen education and research in literature and language.” It has published a style guideline that many schools and companies follow in its activities.
If you’re required to utilize this format, it is essential to define the exact requirements. Although MLA is a handbook, your particular school or institution might have different specifications.
When creating a Google Docs document that is to be formatted using the MLA format, These are the most critical formatting elements to consider according to the MLA Handbook:
A 1-inch margin across the entire text.
- A typeface that is easily read and between 11 to 13 points in size. The traditional style stands out against the bold. Times New Roman is a great choice, although it’s not required.
- The entire page should be double-spaced.
- Start by creating a line indent on the top of each paragraph by a half inch from the margin to the left.
- On the right-hand side of your header, write your name, the space, and the page numbers. The line should be about half a one-inch from the highest point and flush with the left margin.
- On the top-most page, put your name, the instructor’s name, the details of your course, and the date, one inch away from the top and aligned to the margin-left. The spacing should also be double-spaced.
- On the first page, under the above information, you can place your title at the center. The title doesn’t need to be formatted, such as bold or underlined.
- Note your work at the end of your paper, on a different page. The title should be “Works Cited” at the center of the page and an inch away from the paper’s right. Every entry should be in line against the left edge with lines indented by half an inch from that margin.
Why do I need MLA Formatting?
The Modern Language Association (MLA) developed a format that makes literature and language research papers more uniform and readable. The standard specifies what type of paper you should employ, the typeface, and how to organize your writing and citations.
You will find all the specifications in MLA format within the MLA Handbook, currently in the 9th edition. The majority of style guides that are available in your college bookstore provide the information that you need.
Citing Your Sources Using MLA
If you use quotes or paraphrases from the ideas or writings of another, you must acknowledge the source of that essay, article, book, or another source. If you don’t, you’re at risk of being accused of plagiarism, even if it’s not intentional. MLA offers specific guidelines regarding how to acknowledge your sources correctly. The first step is the in-text reference.
After paraphrasing or quoting information after the period, include the author’s name and the page number on which you read the article in parentheses. The final punctuation mark, also known as a period, is placed after the closed parentheses. If you’ve already mentioned the author in your sentence, there’s no have to repeat it. Direct quotes should appear like this:
If you’ve paraphrased someone else’s work, In-text citations follow the same format. However, the difference is that you’ll not have any quotation marks.
If you have to paraphrase or quote texts from other works written by the same writer, you must include a shortened title for each reader. The titles that are shortened for publications should be enclosed with quotation marks. However, shorter titles for books should be written in italics.
How to use the Template MLA in Google Docs
The most straightforward and fastest method of formatting your work is to utilize pre-formatted templates. Google Docs has several templates for academic styles and formats, including MLA.
The template includes some text that acts as an example of a placeholder. It’s just a matter of replacing it with your details and adding your writing. Here’s how to locate and open the template:
Open a new Google doc.
Open the File menu > New. Template.
Under the heading Education, you’ll find a template titled Report. It has MLA under it.
Summary
The correct formatting of an essay or paper in Google Docs may feel like difficult work initially. However, over time it will become second nature. This guide will help you correctly understand the style manual’s basics for MLA.
It’s entirely up to you if you’d like to utilize the MLA template to format your essay. We’d suggest making your formatting using the MLA style If you can do it. This way, you are confident that there aren’t any mistakes in the design.
Last but not least, remember you have Google Docs is rich in useful features that will help you with formatting, editing, and writing processes. Explore the possibilities that Google Docs can do.