Customizing Your Google Doc for the MLA Format

Customizing Your Google Doc for the MLA Format

If you're working on a research paper or essay in the Modern Language Association (MLA) format and need to use Google Docs, you may be wondering how to customize your document to meet the required standards. In this article, we'll show you practical tips on how to convert your Microsoft Word documents to the MLA format using Google Docs.

Understanding the MLA Format Basics

Before we dive into customizing your Google Doc for the MLA format, it's essential to understand the basics of the style guide. The MLA format is commonly used in the humanities, such as literature and language arts. Key features include a double-space document with 1-inch margins on all sides, an alphabetized bibliography, and proper citation of sources.

Tip 1: Set Up Your Document Template

To start customizing your Google Doc for the MLA format, you need to set up your template. Open your Google Doc and create a new template by clicking on "File" > "New document." Choose the "Paper size" as 8.5 x 11 inches and select the "Margins" options as follows:

• Top margin: 1 inch
• Bottom margin: 1 inch
• Left margin: 1 inch
• Right margin: 1 inch

This will give you a basic template to work with.

Tip 2: Add Header and Footer Sections

MLA format requires a running head at the top of each page, which includes your last name and page number. To add a header section in Google Docs, go to "Insert" > "Header." Choose the "Page Number" option and set it to display only on odd-numbered pages.

To add a footer section, go to "Insert" > "Footer." This is optional but recommended for citing sources or providing additional information.

Tip 3: Format Your Body Text

MLA format requires double spacing throughout your document. To achieve this in Google Docs, select the entire body text and click on "Format" > "Paragraph" > "Line spacing" > "Double." You can also adjust the font size to 12-point Times New Roman.

Tip 4: Create a Bibliography

A bibliography is an essential component of MLA format. To create one in Google Docs, go to "Insert" > "Table." Choose the "Bibliography Table" option and customize it as follows:

• Use a consistent font throughout (usually 12-point Times New Roman)
• List sources alphabetically by author's last name
• Include publication date, title, and page numbers (if applicable)

Here is an example of what your bibliography might look like:

Author Last Name, First Initial. Title of Book. Publisher, Year of Publication.
Example: Smith J. The History of Literature. Random House, 2010.

Tip 5: Cite Sources Properly

Proper citation is crucial in MLA format. To cite a source correctly in Google Docs, use the "Citation" tool (available for Chrome users only). Alternatively, you can manually format your citations using the following guidelines:

• Book: Lastname, Firstname. Title of the book. City of publication: Publisher, Year of Publication.
• Article: Lastname, Firstname. "Title of Article." Title of Periodical, Day Month Year of Publication, pp. Page Numbers.

Conclusion Converting your Microsoft Word documents to the MLA format using Google Docs requires some basic customizations. By following these practical tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a properly formatted document that meets the requirements of the Modern Language Association style guide.