How to Write MLA Header

Before writing your header, ensure your document has the correct formatting:

• Font: Times New Roman, 12-point size
• Margins: 1 inch on all sides
• Line spacing: Double spacing throughout
• Alignment: Left-aligned (not justified)

First, set up the running header that appears on every page:

1. Go to Insert → Header (in Word) or similar in other programs
2. Align the header to the right
3. Type your last name, followed by a space and the page number
4. Position it 0.5 inches from the top of the page

Start your paper with your full name in the upper left corner:

• Use your complete name as it appears on official documents
• First name followed by last name
• No titles (Mr., Ms., Dr.) or degrees
• Left-aligned, not centered

On the second line, include your instructor's name:

• Use the name your instructor prefers (check syllabus)
• Include appropriate title (Professor, Dr., Mr., Ms.)
• Use the same format throughout the semester
• Double-space from the previous line

The third line should contain your course information:

• Course name and number (as listed in your syllabus)
• Section number if applicable
• No abbreviations unless specified by instructor
• Match the format used in your school's catalog

The date must follow MLA's specific format:

• Format: Day Month Year (no commas)
• Day: Use numbers (1-31), no "st," "nd," "rd," or "th"
• Month: Spell out completely (January, February, etc.)
• Year: Use four digits

After double-spacing from the date, add your paper title:

• Position: Centered on the page
• Formatting: Same font and size as body text
• Capitalization: Title case (capitalize major words)
• No special formatting: No bold, italics, or underlining
• No quotation marks around your own title

After your title, start writing your paper:

• Double-space after the title
• Return to left alignment for the body text
• Indent the first line of each paragraph 0.5 inches
• Continue with double spacing throughout