MLA 9th Edition : Research Paper Formatting

What has changed from the 8th ed. to the new MLA 9th ed? Not much! The good news is that the format for both in-text and Works Cited citations remains the same through this update. The 9th ed. includes expanded lists of examples, more in-depth guidance on using the MLA template, and recommendations for using inclusive language in your research papers. 

The basics for an MLA 9th ed. formatted research paper are:

• Margins: 1-inch margins on all sides
• Font: use an easily readable font (Times New Roman for example) between 11-13 point font. Always follow instructor guidelines. 
• Spacing: double-spacing throughout
• Running Header: Surname and page number, right justified 
• Names and class information: on just the top of the first page, left justified, type your first and last name, the instructor's name, the course name and number, and the date on separate double-spaced lines.
• Title: place the title of the paper below the date, centered, in upper and lower case letters, unbolded. 
• Body: indent the first line of each paragraph half an inch from the left margin.
• Use only one space after a period in the body of the paper.

Details for formatting your paper in MLA Style (9th Edition). 

Additional information:

The Gateway Libraries recommend that students consult their course syllabus and assignment details for any course specifics and additional faculty requirements.