The Modern Language Association (MLA) is an organization responsible for developing guidelines and standards for writing research papers in various languages, literature and other humanities disciplines. Here are the basic steps to write an MLA research paper:
Choosing a Topic: The first step is to select a research topic that interests you. Make sure the topic is narrow enough to allow you to cover it thoroughly within the assigned page limits. Some options include analyzing literary works, researching historical periods or specific events, investigating philosophical ideas or examining social issues. Do broad initial research to help refine your topic idea into a focused research question worth exploring.
Researching and Taking Notes: With a research question in mind, start gathering relevant information through library databases, online journals, books and credible websites. Take thorough notes and keep track of the bibliographic details like author, title, publisher, date of publication and URL or page range for each source so you can include them accurately in your works cited page later. It’s best to use index cards or a research log to organize your notes. Jot down direct quotes and paraphrases along with page numbers.
Creating an Outline: Developing an outline helps to structure your paper in a logical flow. The typical structure for a research paper outline is: an introduction with a clear thesis statement, three or more body paragraphs with topic sentences and supporting details from your research, and a conclusion that summarizes key points and restates your thesis. Your outline should also include placeholders for direct quotations and paraphrases from research sources.
Drafting the Introduction: In the introductory paragraph, provide necessary context and background on your topic while briefly explaining your approach. The last sentence should clearly state your thesis in a concise, focused claim about what you will prove or argue in your paper. Keep this section brief, typically 3-5 sentences.
Writing Body Paragraphs: Each body paragraph analyzes one key point or subtopic that supports your thesis. The first sentence of each body paragraph is a topic sentence stating what idea or argument the paragraph will discuss. Include multiple well-selected quotes or paraphrases from academic sources in each paragraph along with your own analysis and commentary explaining how the evidence supports your thesis. Make sure to introduce cited material properly before presenting it. Conclude each body paragraph by connecting back to your thesis.
Crafting a Conclusion: Synthesize the major points covered in your body paragraphs and reiterate how they collectively substantiate your thesis. Your conclusion should not introduce new information but rather emphasize the importance and implications of your research. A few closing sentences wrapping up your paper in a impactful yet concise manner are preferable to a lengthy conclusion.
Revising and Proofreading: Carefully review and revise your paper for clarity, flow, transitions between ideas, grammar, spelling and punctuation errors. Ask someone else to proofread your paper as well to catch anything you may have missed. Polish your writing until it reflects a professional academic style.
Formatting the Final Paper: MLA papers should follow specific format guidelines: 12-point Times New Roman font, double-spaced text with 1-inch margins on all sides, page numbers in the top right header, and a header with your last name preceding each page number. Center the title, but do not underline or bold it. Indent the first line of each paragraph by half an inch. Include a works cited page at the end listing all sources in alphabetical order by author’s last name, double-spaced, with a consistent hanging indent.
Submitting Your Paper: When you’ve completed all steps and have thoroughly proofread your paper, submit it by the deadline. Keep an electronic copy for yourself in case you need to edit or reference your work in the future. With diligent research, structured writing, and proper revisions, following the MLA format will result in a well-organized research paper meeting the assignment requirements.
This covers the basic process of writing a research paper using MLA style formatting. Additional tips to keep in mind include developing your thesis early to focus your research, citing sources appropriately within the text when paraphrasing or directly quoting evidence, and maintaining a consistently formal third-person perspective and past-tense verbs in writing. Proofread carefully and consider peer feedback to strengthen your paper before submission. Adhering to MLA guidelines will allow your thoughts and ideas to be expressed clearly while giving credit to the work of others.