Creating a perfect MLA header might seem straightforward, but many students lose valuable points due to seemingly minor formatting errors. These mistakes, while often unintentional, can significantly impact your grade and create a negative first impression with instructors. Understanding these common pitfalls and learning how to avoid them is crucial for academic success, whether you're formatting manually or using an MLA Format Header Generator.
The following ten mistakes represent the most frequent errors observed in student papers across various academic institutions. By recognizing these issues and implementing proper solutions, you can ensure your papers meet professional academic standards and demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to scholarly excellence. For comprehensive formatting guidance, see our complete MLA header guide.
1. Incorrect Date Formatting
The most common mistake students make involves improper date formatting in their MLA headers. Many students default to numerical formats they use in everyday writing, such as 3/10/2025 or 10-03-2025, but MLA format specifically requires the date to be written as day, month (spelled out completely), and year.
Incorrect: 3/10/2025, 10-03-2025, March 10th, 2025, 10 Mar 2025
Correct: 24 September 2025
This formatting requirement ensures consistency across academic papers and follows international date standards used in scholarly writing. The month must be spelled out completely—abbreviations like "Mar" or "Sept" are not acceptable. Additionally, avoid using ordinal indicators like "st," "nd," "rd," or "th" after the day number. A reliable MLA Format Header Generator will automatically format dates correctly, eliminating this common source of errors.
2. Wrong Font Choice and Size
Font selection errors are surprisingly common and immediately noticeable to instructors. MLA format specifically requires 12-point Times New Roman font throughout the entire paper, including the header. Many students use default fonts from their word processors, such as Calibri or Arial, which violates MLA guidelines.
Incorrect: Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, or any font other than Times New Roman
Incorrect sizes: 10pt, 11pt, 14pt, or any size other than 12pt
Correct: 12-point Times New Roman font
The Times New Roman requirement isn't arbitrary—this font was specifically chosen for its readability, professional appearance, and consistent character spacing. Using incorrect fonts can make your paper appear unprofessional and may result in automatic point deductions. Always verify your font settings before submitting, or use an MLA Format Header Generator that automatically applies correct formatting specifications.
3. Improper Spacing Throughout the Header
Spacing errors in MLA headers are extremely common and often result from misunderstanding double-spacing requirements. The entire MLA paper, including the header block, must be double-spaced. This means there should be a full blank line between each line of header information, not single spacing or 1.5 spacing.
Many students correctly double-space their paper content but forget to apply the same spacing to their header block. Others use single spacing in the header while double-spacing the rest of their paper, creating inconsistent formatting that violates MLA standards.
Double spacing serves several purposes: it makes papers easier to read, provides space for instructor comments, and maintains consistency with academic publishing standards. Ensure your entire document, from header to conclusion, maintains consistent double spacing throughout.
4. Missing or Incorrect Running Header
The running header, which appears in the upper right corner of every page, is frequently omitted or formatted incorrectly. This element should contain your last name followed by the page number, positioned 0.5 inches from the top of the page and aligned to the right margin.
Common mistakes include:
- Omitting the running header entirely
- Using your full name instead of just your last name
- Incorrect positioning (left side, center, or wrong distance from top)
- Using Roman numerals instead of Arabic numbers
- Including unnecessary punctuation or symbols
Correct format: Smith 1, Johnson 2, etc.
The running header serves as a backup identification system in case pages become separated. Most word processors can automatically generate running headers, making this process straightforward once properly configured.
5. Incorrect Name Formatting
Students often make errors when entering their names in MLA headers, either by using nicknames, initials, or incorrect capitalization. Your header should contain your full legal name as it appears on official school records, not shortened versions or preferred names unless specifically approved by your instructor.
Incorrect: Bob Smith, R. Smith, ROBERT SMITH, robert smith
Correct: Robert Smith
Use standard capitalization (first letter of each name capitalized, remaining letters lowercase) and include your complete first and last name. If you have a middle name or initial that appears on school records, include it consistently. Some students worry about privacy, but academic papers require proper identification for grading and record-keeping purposes.
6. Improper Instructor Name and Title Usage
Formatting instructor names incorrectly is another frequent mistake that can create a poor impression. Students often use inappropriate titles, incorrect capitalization, or informal versions of their instructor's name. Always use the title and name format your instructor prefers, as indicated in your syllabus or class introductions.
Common mistakes:
- Using "Teacher" instead of proper academic titles
- Incorrect titles (Mr. instead of Dr., or vice versa)
- Omitting titles entirely
- Using first names only
- Incorrect spelling of instructor's name
Correct examples: Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor Michael Brown, Ms. Lisa Davis
When in doubt, ask your instructor how they prefer to be addressed in formal academic work. This attention to detail demonstrates respect and professionalism in your academic relationships.
7. Incomplete or Incorrect Course Information
Course information errors often result from students using informal course names or incomplete details. The course line should include both the course number and full course name as they appear in official documentation, such as your transcript or course catalog.
Incorrect: English, Comp 1, Writing Class
Correct: English 101, ENGL 1301: Composition I, English 101: College Writing
Check your syllabus, student portal, or course catalog for the exact course designation your instructor prefers. Some instructors want just the course number, others prefer the full title, and some want both. Consistency with official course documentation ensures accuracy and professionalism.
8. Wrong Alignment and Margin Settings
Alignment and margin errors can completely disrupt your header's appearance and violate MLA formatting requirements. The header block must be left-aligned and positioned with proper 1-inch margins on all sides. Many students accidentally center their headers or use incorrect margin settings.
MLA format requires specific margin measurements: exactly 1 inch on all sides (top, bottom, left, and right). The header block should align with the left margin, not centered or right-aligned. These specifications ensure consistency across academic papers and provide adequate white space for readability and instructor comments.
Most word processors default to different margin settings, so always verify and adjust your margins before beginning your paper. An MLA Format Header Generator automatically applies correct alignment and positioning, eliminating guesswork and ensuring professional appearance.
9. Inconsistent Formatting Between Header and Paper
Many students create perfect headers but fail to maintain consistent formatting throughout their papers. The font, spacing, and margin requirements that apply to your header must continue throughout your entire document. Inconsistent formatting creates a unprofessional appearance and may result in point deductions.
Common inconsistencies include changing fonts in the body text, switching to single spacing after the header, or adjusting margins for different sections. Your entire paper should maintain the same 12-point Times New Roman font, double spacing, and 1-inch margins from beginning to end.
Before submitting your paper, review the entire document to ensure formatting consistency. Pay special attention to spacing around headings, quotations, and page breaks, as these areas often contain formatting errors that disrupt the paper's professional appearance.
10. Using Outdated MLA Guidelines
The final common mistake involves using outdated MLA formatting guidelines. The Modern Language Association periodically updates their style guide, with the most recent being the 9th edition published in 2021. Students sometimes rely on older textbooks, outdated websites, or previous knowledge that reflects earlier versions of MLA format.
Key changes in recent MLA editions include updated digital source citation requirements, modified header specifications, and revised guidelines for various document types. While header formatting has remained relatively stable, other aspects of MLA format have evolved significantly.
Always verify that you're using current MLA 9th edition guidelines for your papers. Reputable MLA Format Header Generator tools stay updated with the latest requirements, ensuring your formatting meets current academic standards. When in doubt, consult the official MLA Handbook or your institution's writing center for clarification.
Prevention Strategies and Best Practices
Avoiding these common mistakes requires systematic attention to detail and the use of reliable resources. Start by creating a checklist of MLA header requirements that you can reference for every paper. This checklist should include font specifications, spacing requirements, alignment rules, and content guidelines for each header element.
Consider using technology to your advantage. MLA Format Header Generator tools can eliminate many of these common errors by automatically applying correct formatting specifications. However, always review generated headers to ensure they meet your instructor's specific requirements and match your paper's content accurately.
Develop a proofreading routine that specifically focuses on formatting elements before content review. Check your header formatting first, then review spacing and alignment throughout your paper, and finally verify that all elements match current MLA guidelines. This systematic approach helps catch errors before submission.
Conclusion: Achieving MLA Header Excellence
These ten common mistakes represent the most frequent errors that cost students points on their academic papers. By understanding these pitfalls and implementing proper prevention strategies, you can ensure your MLA headers meet professional academic standards and create positive first impressions with your instructors.
Remember that proper formatting demonstrates your attention to detail, respect for academic conventions, and commitment to scholarly excellence. Whether you format headers manually or use an MLA Format Header Generator, understanding these common mistakes helps you verify accuracy and maintain consistency throughout your academic career.
Take time to review your headers carefully before submitting any academic work. The few minutes spent checking formatting details can prevent significant point deductions and help establish your reputation as a careful, detail-oriented student who takes academic standards seriously.