A complete MLA paper uses one-inch margins, double spacing, a four-line heading on page one, a centered title, indented body paragraphs, and a last-name/page-number running header.
Begin your paper here. The first line of each paragraph is indented one-half inch. Your entire paper, including the heading and title, should be double-spaced.
Continue writing with a clear, readable typeface. Follow any additional instructions provided by your instructor.
Running headerHeadingTitleAnnotated MLA first page
The preview places the running header in the upper-right header area and the four-line heading in the page body. The centered title and indented opening paragraph follow without extra blank lines.
What each part does
The heading identifies the student and class. The running header identifies and numbers each page. The title names the paper, and the half-inch indent marks each new body paragraph.
- ✓ Heading: first page only
- ✓ Running header: every page
- ✓ Title: centered in normal text
- ✓ Body: left aligned with first-line indents
Works Cited page preview
Continue the same running header and page numbering. Start a new page, center Works Cited, keep entries double-spaced, and apply a half-inch hanging indent to lines after the first line of each entry.
Smith 5
Works Cited
Author Last, First. Title of Book. Publisher, Year.Turn the example into your paper
Replace the sample details with your own information, then verify the result in your word processor. The free generator can produce a clean first page and downloadable Word file without adding promotional text to your document.
Create your MLA header
Enter your details once, see the complete first page, then copy or download it.
Open the free generatorFrequently asked questions
Can I copy this MLA example exactly?
Copy the layout, not the sample identity or source entry. Replace every placeholder and format your actual sources individually.
Does every MLA paper look identical?
The core layout is consistent, but instructors may specify a typeface, title page, section headings, or other course requirements.
Based on the MLA Style Center’s paper-formatting guidance and the MLA Handbook, ninth edition. Last reviewed 30 September 2026. Always follow your instructor’s directions.