Mastering MLA Format in Google Docs

If you’re a student or writer, you might wonder what MLA format is and why it matters. MLA refers to the Modern Language Association, setting guidelines mostly used in humanities fields. These rules help ensure that your writing is clear and organized, making it easier for readers to understand your arguments and sources. Using MLA format in Google Docs can streamline the writing process and help you present your work accurately.

Setting Up Google Docs for MLA Formatting

Before diving into writing, setting up your Google Docs document for MLA format is important. Here’s how you can do it:

Page Setup

1. Open Google Docs: Start a new document.
2. Margins: Click on “File,” then “Page setup.” Adjust the margins to 1 inch on all sides.
3. Font and Size: Change the font to Times New Roman and adjust the font size to 12 points.
4. Line Spacing: Go to “Format,” select “Line spacing,” and choose “Double.” Ensure there’s no extra space between paragraphs by selecting “Remove space after paragraph.”

Header and Title

In MLA format, the header and title must follow specific guidelines.

1. Header: Click on “Insert” and select “Header & page number,” then “Header.” Type your last name followed by a space and click “Insert” again, followed by “Page number.” This action should place your surname and page number in the top right corner of each page.
2. Title: Center the title on the next line. Ensure you do not underline, italicize, or place it in quotation marks. Maintain standard capitalization.

Formatting the First Page

The first page of your document does not require a title page. Instead, it has specific requirements to follow:

1. Your Information: At the top left corner, type your name, the instructor’s name, the course name, and the date, each on a new line.
2. Title: After the date, hit “Enter” and center your title.

Here’s an example layout:

Your Name
Instructor's Name
Course Name
Date

Title of Your Paper

In-Text Citations

When quoting or paraphrasing another author’s work, including in-text citations is crucial to give them credit. In MLA format, include the author’s surname and the page reference in parentheses.

Example of In-Text Citation

If you were referencing a book by John Smith:

• Without a quote: According to Smith, modern technology has changed communication (23).
• With a quote: “Modern technology has changed communication” (Smith 23).

Always document any source you use in your Works Cited page.

Creating a Works Cited Page

A Works Cited page must conclude your document. This page lists all the sources you referenced in your work, formatted according to MLA style.

Steps to Format Your Works Cited Page

1. New Page: After the last page of your paper, create a new page and title it “Works Cited.” Center this title.
2. Hanging Indent: Each entry should have a hanging indent. To create this in Google Docs, select your citation on the Works Cited page, go to “Format,” then “Align & indent,” and finally, “Indentation options.” Set “Special indent” to “Hanging.”
3. Alphabetical Order: Arrange all entries alphabetically by the author’s last name.

Example Entry

For a book by John Smith:

Smith, John. Title of the Book. Publisher, Year of Publication.

Using Google Docs Tools for MLA Format

Google Docs has built-in tools to help streamline your formatting process, particularly with citations and bibliographies.

Using the Explore Tool for Research

1. Accessing Explore: Click “Tools” and select “Explore.” This action opens a panel where you can search for information to include in your work.
2. Citing Sources: Locate the source, hover over it, and select “Cite.” The tool creates a citation instantly, simplifying referencing.

Add-ons for MLA Formatting

Several add-ons for Google Docs can help automate MLA formatting:

1. EasyBib: This add-on can help you create citations and bibliographies with ease.
2. Paperpile: This is particularly useful for managing references in research papers.

Tips for Writing in MLA Format

Adhering to MLA guidelines not only helps you avoid plagiarism but also enhances the professionalism of your work. Here are a few tips:

• Be Consistent: Maintain uniform formatting throughout your Google Docs document.
• Proofread: Always proofread your work, looking for formatting errors or typos.
• Use Active Voice: Strive for clarity and engagement in your writing by using the active voice.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to MLA Format In Google Docs

Q. What is MLA format?
A. MLA format is a style guide the Modern Language Association created for writing research papers, particularly in the humanities.

Q. How do I set up a document in MLA format in Google Docs?
A. Set 1-inch margins, use Times New Roman size 12 font, and double-space your text.

Q. Should I include a title page in MLA format?
A. No, MLA format does not require a title page; use the first page to include your name, instructor’s name, course name, and date.

Q. What is an in-text citation in MLA format?
A. An in-text citation includes the author’s last name and page number in parentheses, such as (Smith 23), to credit sources within the text.

Q. How do I create a Works Cited page in Google Docs?
A. Start a new page, title it “Works Cited,” and list all your sources alphabetically with hanging indents.

Q. Can Google Docs help with MLA citations?
A. Yes. Google Docs has an “Explore” tool for research and several add-ons like EasyBib to assist with citations.

Q. What if I can’t find publication information for a source?
A. If you can’t find specific publication details, include as much information as possible and note that it may be incomplete.

Q. Should I italicize book titles in MLA format?
A. Yes, book titles should be italicized on the Works Cited page.

Q. Is it necessary to have a separate Works Cited page?
A. Yes, a Works Cited page is essential in MLA format to acknowledge all the sources used.

Q. How do you prevent plagiarism while using MLA format?
A. Always credit original authors with in-text citations and a comprehensive Works Cited page.

Conclusion

Using MLA format in Google Docs is crucial for any student or writer wanting to present their work professionally. By setting up your document correctly, using in-text citations, and creating a well-formatted Works Cited page, you can elevate the readability and credibility of your writing. Use Google Docs features and add-ons to simplify the process and ensure your paper meets the necessary standards.