MLA format Google Docs: Setting Up Your Paper

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Writing in MLA format might sound boring or scary. But don’t worry — it’s not! Especially when you’re using Google Docs. With a few clicks and some simple tips, you’ll be formatting like a pro.

TLDR:

Setting up your paper in MLA format in Google Docs is easy. You’ll need double-spacing, 1-inch margins, a header with your last name and page number, and a specific order for your info. Use Times New Roman, 12 pt font, and don’t forget that Works Cited page! This guide walks you through it step-by-step.

What is MLA Format Anyway?

MLA stands for the Modern Language Association. It’s a style guide used mainly for writing in humanities like English and history. Schools and colleges love it because it keeps papers looking neat and professional.

Step-by-Step Guide to MLA Format in Google Docs

1. Open Google Docs

First things first, go to Google Docs. Click on Blank document to start a new project.

2. Set the Margins

MLA format requires 1-inch margins on all sides.

  • Click File
  • Go to Page setup
  • Make sure all margins are set to 1 inch

Tip: You can click “Set as default” to keep this for future papers.

3. Choose Your Font and Size

Use Times New Roman, size 12. It’s the classic MLA choice.

  • Highlight your text (or hit Ctrl+A to select all)
  • Choose Times New Roman from the font menu
  • Set the size to 12

4. Set Line Spacing

MLA uses double-spacing everywhere — even on the Works Cited page.

  • Click on the Line & paragraph spacing icon (looks like up/down arrows)
  • Select Double

Also, check the option that says “Add space before/after paragraph”, and make sure it’s turned off.

5. Add a Header

This part is important for page numbering.

  • Click Insert
  • Select Headers & footers
  • Click on Header

Now click the right-align button in the toolbar.

Type your last name followed by a space.

  • Then click Insert again
  • Choose Page numbers
  • Select the first option: page number in the top right

It should look something like this: Smith 1

6. Add Your MLA Heading

This goes on the top left of the first page, not in the header.

It should look like this:

John Smith
Ms. Anderson
English 101
12 October 2024

This section should also be double-spaced like the rest of your paper.

7. Center Your Title

After your heading, hit enter once. Then click the center align icon and type your title. Make it interesting (but don’t bold, italicize, or underline it).

After the title, hit enter again and go back to left align. Start typing your essay from there.

Extra MLA Must-Haves

In-Text Citations

When you quote or paraphrase a source, include the author’s last name in parentheses.

Example:

“To be or not to be” is one of the most famous lines in literature (Shakespeare).

No fancy footnotes. Just keep it simple!

Works Cited Page

This is where you list all your sources. It goes at the very end of your paper.

  • Start a new page
  • Use the title Works Cited, centered at the top
  • List entries alphabetically by author’s last name

Each entry should use a hanging indent. Here’s how to do that:

  • Highlight your Works Cited entries
  • Click Format → Align & indent → Indentation options
  • Under “Special indent,” choose Hanging and click OK

Pro Tip: Use the Tools Menu

Google Docs has a built-in citation tool!

  • Click Tools
  • Select Citations
  • Choose MLA style
  • Add the sources you used

This feature can insert in-text citations and build a Works Cited page for you. Magic!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Wrong font or size: Always use Times New Roman, size 12.
  2. Skipping the header: Don’t forget your last name + page number.
  3. Using single spacing: MLA is always double-spaced.
  4. Forgetting hanging indents: Especially on the Works Cited page.

A Quick MLA Checklist

  • 1-inch margins
  • Times New Roman, 12 pt
  • Double-spacing throughout
  • Last name and page number in header
  • Correct MLA heading (your name, teacher, class, date)
  • Centered title (no bold, italics, or underline)
  • Indented first lines of paragraphs
  • In-text citations
  • Works Cited page

Final Thoughts

Setting up MLA format in Google Docs isn’t hard once you know the steps. It’s all about staying organized and following the rules. Once you do it once, you’ll breeze through it next time!

So go ahead — open that blank document and start your masterpiece. MLA style isn’t scary anymore. You’ve got this!