What To Know
- For the first line of each paragraph, use the “Format” menu to select “Indentation Options” and set the “Indentation” to “Hanging” with an “Indentation Amount” of 0.
- Highlight the title of your paper and click on the “Align” button to center the text.
- ” Create a new paragraph style with double spacing and apply it to the selected sections.
Navigating the intricacies of MLA format can be daunting, but Google Docs offers a seamless solution to simplify the process. This comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and step-by-step instructions on how to effortlessly achieve MLA formatting in Google Docs.
Setting Up Your Document
1. Create a New Document: Start by creating a new document in Google Docs.
2. Select the MLA Template: Click on the “File” menu and select “New” from the dropdown. Type “MLA” in the search bar and choose the appropriate template.
Formatting the Header
1. Insert Your Name and Course Information: Click on the “Insert” menu and select “Header & Page Number.” Customize the header by adding your name, course, instructor’s name, and date in the following format:
“`
Your Name
Course Name
Instructor’s Name
Date
“`
2. Set Page Margins: Go to “File” > “Page Setup” and ensure the margins are set to 1 inch on all sides.
Formatting the Body Text
1. Set Font and Size: Use the “Format” menu to select the font “Times New Roman” and font size “12pt.”
2. Double-Space the Text: Go to “Format” > “Paragraph Styles” and choose “Normal – Double Spacing.”
3. Create Hanging Indents: For the first line of each paragraph, use the “Format” menu to select “Indentation Options” and set the “Indentation” to “Hanging” with an “Indentation Amount” of 0.5 inches.
Formatting the Citations
1. Use the MLA Add-On: Install the “MLA Citation Generator” add-on from the Google Workspace Marketplace.
2. Insert Citations: Highlight the text you want to cite and click on the “Add-ons” menu. Select “MLA Citation Generator” and choose the appropriate citation style.
3. Create a Works Cited Page: At the end of your document, click on “Insert” > “Break” to insert a page break. Title the new page “Works Cited” and use the MLA Citation Generator to create the reference list.
Formatting the Title Page
1. Create a Title Page: Insert a page break and click on “Insert” > “Header & Page Number” to remove the header information.
2. Center the Title: Highlight the title of your paper and click on the “Align” button to center the text.
3. Add Your Name and Affiliation: Below the title, type your name and affiliation (e.g., school or organization).
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Missing Header: Ensure you have inserted a header and customized it with your information.
2. Incorrect Font: Verify that the font is set to “Times New Roman” and the size is “12pt.”
3. Citation Errors: Check if the MLA Citation Generator is installed and configured correctly.
Final Note: The Power of MLA Formatting
Mastering MLA formatting in Google Docs empowers you to create polished and professional academic documents. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effortlessly adhere to academic standards and enhance the credibility of your writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other fonts besides Times New Roman?
A: Yes, certain academic journals may have specific font requirements. Check with your instructor or the journal guidelines.
Q: How do I indent the first line of every paragraph by one tab?
A: Use the “Format” > “Indentation Options” and set the “Indentation” to “First Line” with an “Indentation Amount” of 0.5 inches.
Q: Can I double-space only certain sections of my document?
A: Yes, highlight the specific sections you want to double-space and go to “Format” > “Paragraph Styles.” Create a new paragraph style with double spacing and apply it to the selected sections.
