The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is one of the major formatting styles used for academic writing. It is commonly used in humanities disciplines such as languages, linguistics, literature, cultural studies, and other related fields. This style guide provides writers with a set of conventions for presenting research papers and citing sources in MLA format. Many universities and publications require writers to adhere to the guidelines of the MLA style manual when compiling research papers and submitting academic works.
While MLA style used to focus primarily on formatting papers written by hand, the advent of word processing programs and PDF documents means the style has adapted to digital workflows. Many students today are required to submit their research papers and other academic writing assignments in PDF format instead of printed hard copies. Proper application of MLA formatting and citation rules is still important even when compiling works digitally and in electronic file formats like PDF.
There are several key things writers need to keep in mind when formatting an MLA style research paper that will be submitted or published as a PDF document:
Use a standard font like Times New Roman that is readable onscreen at 12 points. Font size and type should be consistent throughout the entire document.
Set 1 inch margins on all sides of the pages. Pages numbers should be placed in the top right corner 1/2 inch from the top edge and flush with the right margin. Page numbers are not necessary on the title or works cited pages.
Double space all text including block quotes, notes, and reference entries. Single spacing should only be used for long headings and publication descriptions in works cited entries.
Indent the first line of each paragraph of text by 1/2 inch from the left margin without adding extra space between paragraphs.
Include a title page for the paper with the titles centered about 1/3 of the way down. Only title and author’s name are required.
Add headers with your last name and page number flush right at the top of each page, except the title page. Do not place headers on title page or works cited page.
Insert an MLA style heading in left corner of the first page with your name, instructor, course name, and date in that order using double spacing between lines.
Place the title of your paper in the center about 1/3 of the way down the page. Only include your name as author information on the title page.
Use in text citations to document any quoted, paraphrased or summarized information from sources within the body of the paper. Include author’s last name and page number or paragraph number in parentheses.
Compile a works cited list on final page centered near bottom with entries in alphabetical order according to author’s last name. Use hanging indentation style for entries.
Save the paper as a PDF file using your last name and assignment title as the filename for easy identification by instructors.
MLA also provides guidance on properly incorporating tables, figures, images or audio/visual media from research sources into the paper. Be sure any non-text content is neatly captioned and cited within the paper and works cited list. Additionally, papers formatted for submission as a PDF still require following other MLA conventions for element order, formatting of block quotes, and consistency in voice, verb tense, and point of view.
While the MLA style was initially meant for typewritten papers, it remains relevant in today’s digital age. When compiled correctly, MLA style research papers submitted as PDF documents are easy for instructors and publication reviewers to navigate by following standard conventions. Proper application of MLA rules helps establish credibility and professionalism for student and academic writers. With care given to formatting, citations, works cited lists, and overall design, research papers created and saved in PDF format uphold the consistency and reader-friendly guidelines of the MLA style guide. Adhering to these presentation standards facilitates evaluation of ideas instead of mechanics, allowing the substance of academic arguments and literature research to shine through in research papers saved and shared digitally as PDF files.