The Modern Language Association (MLA) is an organization responsible for developing guidelines and standards for writing research papers, particularly in the liberal arts and humanities fields. The MLA guidelines specify a standard format for research papers including a specific title page layout. This article will provide an in-depth look at the proper MLA format for a title page on a research paper including key elements and their proper placement.
The title page is the first thing your reader encounters when beginning your research paper, so it’s important to follow the proper MLA format. The basic elements that must be included on an MLA title page, in order, are:
-The title of your paper – The title should be centered on the page and typed in a standard font like Times New Roman size 12. Keep titles brief but informative, typically less than 12 words.
-Your name – Your full name should be typed 1-2 lines below the title, also centered. Only use your first and last name without any titles (Dr., Mr., etc.)
-Your instructor’s name – On the line below your name, type the name of your instructor, course professor, or whomever is grading your paper. For example “John Smith” or “Professor Michael Jones”
-The course name/number – On the next line, type the name of the course or class for which the paper was written. For example “English 101” or “19th Century American Literature.”
-Date of submission – The final element on an MLA title page is the date on which the paper is due or being submitted. Type out the date in this order – Day Month Year. For example “15 March 2020.”
While a title page is not strictly required for an MLA paper, it is always recommended to include one to properly identify the paper and give readers important context before diving into the content. Sticking to this strict format and order helps ensure your title page looks polished and professional.
Some additional tips for an effective MLA formatted title page:
All text should be left-aligned (flush with the left margin), not centered, except the main title as noted above.
Do not include headers or footers on the title page. Those are reserved for the rest of the paper pages to identify page numbers.
Remember that page numbers are not included on the title page. Start page numbering with page 2 where the content begins.
Use a clear 12-point font like Times New Roman, not ornate fonts that are hard to read or distracting. Stick with standard black text.
Leave one inch or 1″ margins on all four sides of the page. Title pages should be oriented in standard Portrait layout.
Double space between each element listed above. This helps give clarity and breathing room between the various parts.
Watch formatting exactly – titles, names, course data should be on separate lines consistently. Do not cram info together.
Check for typos and spelling errors. Titles may seem simple but attention to detail here creates professionalism.
Since the title page is the first impression for your reader, it’s important to get the MLA format exactly right. A clear, properly ordered title page establishes credibility and sets the stage for a quality research paper within. While it may seem trivial, investing time ensuring your title page adheres to MLA standards reinforces your authority on the topic and attention to formatting guidelines. Used correctly, the standard MLA title page format is a simple yet powerful way to make an excellent first impression.
Some instructors or publications may have their own modified style guidelines for title pages as well. Following the basic MLA format above serves as a solid default for most academic papers. Taking care with all formatting details helps readers assess your papers as thoroughly researched and carefully presented. With practice, a properly formatted MLA title page can be produced quickly and easily to introduce your research in the best professional light. Applying standard title page structure provides an important framework to make a great initial impact with readers.