In Word, choose Insert → Page Number → Top of Page, select a right-aligned style, and type your last name plus a space before the page-number field. Keep the header one-half inch from the top.
Create the running header
Use Insert → Page Number → Top of Page and choose a plain right-aligned number. In the header, place the cursor before the number and type your last name followed by a space. Confirm that Different First Page is not selected.
- ✓ Right-aligned
- ✓ One-half inch from top
- ✓ Automatic page number
- ✓ Same font as body
Apply MLA paragraph settings
Set all margins to one inch from Layout → Margins. In the Paragraph dialog, choose double line spacing, set spacing before and after to zero, and set Special indentation to First line at 0.5 inch.
Type the heading and title
Close the header. At the left margin, type the four heading lines. Center the paper title on the next double-spaced line, then return to left alignment for the body.
Create your MLA header
Enter your details once, see the complete first page, then copy or download it.
Open the free generatorFrequently asked questions
Why is page two also numbered 1?
The number may have been typed as plain text. Insert Word’s Page Number field so it updates automatically.
Can I download a ready-made Word file?
Yes. The free template on this site includes the core page, paragraph, and header settings.
Based on the MLA Style Center’s paper-formatting guidance and the MLA Handbook, ninth edition. Last reviewed 28 September 2026. Always follow your instructor’s directions.