Writing in MLA Format Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Writing in MLA (Modern Language Association) format is a crucial aspect of academic writing, particularly in the humanities and social sciences. Google Docs, a popular online word processing tool, offers a convenient and accessible way to create and edit documents in MLA format. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing in MLA format Google Docs, highlighting key points and providing step-by-step instructions.
Understanding MLA Format
Before we dive into the Google Docs guide, let’s briefly review the basics of MLA format. MLA format is a citation style that emphasizes the use of parenthetical citations, footnotes, and a Works Cited page. The most common citation style used in MLA is the 8th edition, which is widely accepted in academic settings.
Setting up MLA Format in Google Docs
To set up MLA format in Google Docs, follow these steps:
- Open your Google Doc and click on the "Tools" menu.
- Select "Citations" from the drop-down menu.
- Click on "Edit Citation" to open the citation editor.
- In the citation editor, select the citation style you want to use (e.g., MLA 8th edition).
- Click "OK" to save the changes.
Creating a Works Cited Page
A Works Cited page is a list of sources cited in the document. To create a Works Cited page in MLA format, follow these steps:
- In the citation editor, click on the "Works Cited" tab.
- Click on the "New" button to create a new entry.
- Enter the title of the source in the "Title" field.
- Enter the author’s name in the "Author" field.
- Enter the publication date in the "Publication Date" field.
- Enter the publisher’s name in the "Publisher" field.
- Enter the page numbers in the "Pages" field.
- Click "OK" to save the entry.
Formatting Sources
To format sources in MLA format, follow these steps:
- In the citation editor, click on the "Sources" tab.
- Click on the "New" button to create a new entry.
- Enter the title of the source in the "Title" field.
- Enter the author’s name in the "Author" field.
- Enter the publication date in the "Publication Date" field.
- Enter the publisher’s name in the "Publisher" field.
- Enter the page numbers in the "Pages" field.
- Click "OK" to save the entry.
In-Text Citations
In-text citations are used to credit sources within the document. To create in-text citations in MLA format, follow these steps:
- In the citation editor, click on the "In-Text" tab.
- Click on the "New" button to create a new entry.
- Enter the citation information in the "Citation" field.
- Click "OK" to save the entry.
Bibliography
A bibliography is a list of sources cited in the Works Cited page. To create a bibliography in MLA format, follow these steps:
- In the citation editor, click on the "Bibliography" tab.
- Click on the "New" button to create a new entry.
- Enter the title of the source in the "Title" field.
- Enter the author’s name in the "Author" field.
- Enter the publication date in the "Publication Date" field.
- Enter the publisher’s name in the "Publisher" field.
- Enter the page numbers in the "Pages" field.
- Click "OK" to save the entry.
Common MLA Format Guidelines
Here are some common MLA format guidelines to keep in mind:
- Font: Use a legible font, such as Times New Roman or Arial.
- Margins: Set the margins to 1 inch on all sides.
- Indentation: Use a half-inch indentation for the first line of each paragraph.
- Line spacing: Use double spacing throughout the document.
- Headings: Use headings to break up the document and provide a clear structure.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you write in MLA format Google Docs:
- Use a consistent citation style: Use a consistent citation style throughout the document to avoid confusion.
- Use a Works Cited page: Use a Works Cited page to list all sources cited in the document.
- Use in-text citations: Use in-text citations to credit sources within the document.
- Use a bibliography: Use a bibliography to list all sources cited in the Works Cited page.
Conclusion
Writing in MLA format Google Docs is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of the citation style. By following these steps and guidelines, you can create a well-formatted document that meets the MLA 8th edition citation style. Remember to use a consistent citation style, a Works Cited page, and in-text citations to ensure that your document is accurate and reliable.