Typically, your instructor will let you know if your paper should be formatted in either MLA or APA format. If the instructor does not specify which style to use, MLA is recommended.
Formatting your paper using MLA
Always choose an easily readable typeface (such as Times New Roman) and set it anywhere between 11 and 13 points. Generally use the same typeface throughout the paper.
Double-space the entire research paper, including quotations, notes, and the list of works cited. Indent the first line of a paragraph half an inch from the left margin. To add double-spacing in Microsoft Word, highlight all the text you want double-spaced, then click on Page Layout. Next to the word Paragraph click on the arrow. Under Spacing, Line Spacing, select Double, and then click OK.
Leave margins of one inch at the top and bottom and on both sides of the text. Microsoft Word usually is set to 1 in. margins. You can check this by clicking on Page Layout, then click on Margins. The margin you are using is highlighted, select Normal if it is not already selected.
Instead of a title page, MLA papers begin with the student's name, instructor's name, course, and date on the left margin. The title of the paper then begins on the next line and should be centered. Do not underline, italicize, put in quotation marks, boldface, or type your title in all caps.
Formatting your paper using APA
APA recommends using the same font throughout your paper. The font should be a serif or sans serif typeface to ensure readability. Only use a different typeface in figure descriptions, in that case, use a font between 8 and 14 points.
Use double-spacing throughout the entire paper. To add double-spacing in Microsoft Word, highlight all the text you want double-spaced, then click on Page Layout. Next to the word Paragraph click on the arrow. Under Spacing, Line Spacing, select Double, and then click OK.
Leave 1-inch margins from top to bottom and side to side. Microsoft Word usually is set to 1 in. margins. You can check this by clicking on Page Layout, then click on Margins. The margin you are using is highlighted, select Normal if it is not already selected.
APA papers begin with a title page. In the header, on the right, is the page number, starting with 1. Centered on the page is the full title of the paper in boldface type. Place one extra space after the title of the paper. Following is the author (or authors if this is a group paper), the department and institution to which the paper is affiliated, the course number and course name, the professor's name, and the due date of the paper.
