MLA Formatting Guidelines and Practices

This video tutorial explains how to format an essay using MLA guidelines (eighth edition). It covers selecting the correct font, setting double spacing, and removing extra paragraph spaces. The tutorial also guides on adding personal and course information, creating headers with page numbers, and formatting titles and paragraphs. Finally, it details setting up a works cited page, ensuring all elements adhere to MLA standards.

Why is it important to follow MLA guidelines closely, especially in the arts?

• It allows for creative freedom in writing.

• It is the only format accepted by all universities.

• It helps in maintaining consistency and professionalism.

• It is a universal standard for all subjects.

What font and size should be used according to MLA guidelines?

• Verdana, size 14

• Arial, size 10

• Times New Roman, size 12

• Calibri, size 11

Why should you avoid changing the font size to meet word count requirements?

• It makes the essay look unprofessional.

• It is difficult to read.

• It is against MLA guidelines.

• It can lead to formatting errors.

What spacing should be applied to the text in an MLA formatted essay?

• Triple spacing

• Single spacing

• 1.5 spacing

• Double spacing

What should you do to remove extra spaces after paragraphs in Microsoft Word?

• Use a different word processor.

• Press backspace after each paragraph.

• Click on 'Remove Space After Paragraph'.

• Manually adjust the spacing.

What is the correct order for adding personal and course information in an MLA formatted essay?

• Date, your name, course name, professor's name

• Professor's name, your name, date, course name

• Your name, professor's name, course name, date

• Course name, date, professor's name, your name

What is the recommended date to use on your essay according to MLA guidelines?

• The date you started the essay

• The due date

• The date you finished the essay

• The date you submitted the essay

How do you access the header area in Microsoft Word to add your last name and page number?

• Right-click at the top of the page

• Double-click at the top of the page

• Press 'Ctrl + H'

• Use the 'View' menu

Where should the page number be placed in an MLA formatted essay?

• Bottom left corner

• Top right corner

• Top left corner

• Bottom right corner

How should the title of your essay be formatted in MLA style?

• Bold and underlined

• Centered with keywords capitalized

• Italicized and left-aligned

• In all caps and right-aligned