Intro
Master the art of creating a perfect MLA outline template in Word with our easy-to-follow guide. Learn how to format your research paper, thesis, or essay with ease using Microsoft Words built-in tools and features. Discover the essential elements of an MLA outline, including headings, subheadings, and citations, and get tips on how to avoid common mistakes.
MLA (Modern Language Association) format is widely used in the humanities, such as literature, language, and cultural studies. Creating an MLA outline template in Word can help you organize your research paper or essay and ensure that it meets the necessary formatting guidelines. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create an MLA outline template in Word.
Understanding MLA Format
Before creating an MLA outline template, it's essential to understand the basic formatting guidelines. Here are some key elements to consider:
- Font: 12-point Times New Roman
- Margins: One inch on all sides (top, bottom, left, and right)
- Indentation: Five spaces (or use the tab key)
- Line spacing: Double-spaced
- Header: Last name and page number in the upper-right corner
- In-text citations: Author's last name and page number(s)
Creating an MLA Outline Template in Word
To create an MLA outline template in Word, follow these steps:
Step 1: Set the Font and Margins
- Open a new document in Word and select the "Home" tab.
- Click on the "Font" group and select "Times New Roman" from the font dropdown menu.
- Set the font size to 12 points.
- Click on the "Layout" tab and select "Margins" from the dropdown menu.
- Set the margins to one inch on all sides (top, bottom, left, and right).
Step 2: Set the Indentation and Line Spacing
- Click on the "Home" tab and select the "Paragraph" group.
- Click on the "Indentation" dropdown menu and select "First Line" indentation.
- Set the indentation to five spaces (or use the tab key).
- Click on the "Line Spacing" dropdown menu and select "Double" spacing.
Step 3: Create the Header
- Click on the "Insert" tab and select "Header" from the dropdown menu.
- Select the "Blank" header template.
- Type your last name and page number in the upper-right corner of the header.
- Click on the "Close Header and Footer" button.
Step 4: Create the Outline Template
- Click on the "Home" tab and select the "Numbering" dropdown menu.
- Select the "Multilevel List" option.
- Choose the "MLA" outline template from the list of available templates.
- If you don't see the MLA template, you can create a custom outline template using the following settings:
- Level 1: Roman numerals (I, II, III, etc.)
- Level 2: Capital letters (A, B, C, etc.)
- Level 3: Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.)
- Level 4: Lowercase letters (a, b, c, etc.)
Using the MLA Outline Template
Once you've created the MLA outline template, you can use it to organize your research paper or essay. Here are some tips for using the template effectively:
- Use the template to create an outline for your paper before you start writing.
- Organize your ideas using the Roman numerals, capital letters, and Arabic numerals.
- Use the lowercase letters to break down your ideas into smaller subpoints.
- Use the template to ensure that your paper is formatted correctly and meets the MLA guidelines.
Additional Tips and Resources
Here are some additional tips and resources to help you use the MLA outline template effectively:
- Use the MLA Handbook (8th edition) or the MLA website to consult the official guidelines for MLA format.
- Use online resources, such as Purdue OWL or the MLA website, to find examples of MLA outlines and templates.
- Use the MLA template to create an outline for your paper, and then use the outline to guide your writing.
- Don't forget to proofread your paper carefully to ensure that it meets the MLA guidelines and is free of errors.
MLA Outline Template Gallery
By following these steps and using the MLA outline template, you can create a well-organized and formatted research paper or essay that meets the MLA guidelines.