When it comes to submitting academic papers, the cover page is often the first thing that instructors and reviewers see. A well-crafted cover page can make a great first impression and set the tone for the rest of the paper. In this article, we will provide 7+ MLA cover page tips to help you create a perfect submission.
Understanding MLA Cover Page Requirements
The Modern Language Association (MLA) has specific guidelines for formatting cover pages. According to the MLA Handbook, a cover page should include the following elements: the student’s name, the instructor’s name, the course name and number, the assignment title, and the date. The cover page should be formatted with a legible font, typically 12-point Times New Roman, and double-spaced.
MLA Cover Page Template
To create a cover page that meets MLA requirements, you can use the following template:
| Element | Format |
|---|---|
| Student's Name | Upper left corner, double-spaced |
| Instructor's Name | Upper left corner, below student's name, double-spaced |
| Course Name and Number | Upper left corner, below instructor's name, double-spaced |
| Assignment Title | Centered, below course name and number, double-spaced |
| Date | Upper right corner, double-spaced |
Here is an example of what an MLA cover page might look like:
John Doe
Professor Jane Smith
English 101
The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Communities
February 22, 2023
Additional MLA Cover Page Tips
In addition to the basic requirements, here are some additional tips to help you create a perfect MLA cover page:
- Use a clear and concise title that accurately reflects the content of your paper.
- Double-check your instructor's name and course information to ensure accuracy.
- Use a standard font such as 12-point Times New Roman, and avoid using bold or italic fonts.
- Proofread your cover page carefully to catch any spelling or formatting errors.
- Keep it simple and avoid adding unnecessary graphics or images.
- Use the correct date format, which is typically day-month-year (e.g. 22 February 2023).
- Make sure your cover page is properly aligned, with the student's name and instructor's name in the upper left corner, and the date in the upper right corner.
Common MLA Cover Page Mistakes to Avoid
While creating an MLA cover page may seem straightforward, there are several common mistakes that students make. Here are some errors to avoid:
One of the most common mistakes is inconsistent formatting, where the font, spacing, or alignment is not consistent throughout the cover page. Another mistake is missing or incorrect information, such as forgetting to include the instructor's name or using an incorrect date format. Additionally, overly elaborate designs can be distracting and take away from the professionalism of the submission.
MLA Cover Page Best Practices
To create a perfect MLA cover page, here are some best practices to follow:
- Use a template to ensure that your cover page is formatted correctly.
- Proofread your cover page carefully to catch any errors.
- Keep it simple and avoid adding unnecessary graphics or images.
- Use the correct font and spacing, which is typically 12-point Times New Roman, double-spaced.
- Make sure your cover page is properly aligned, with the student's name and instructor's name in the upper left corner, and the date in the upper right corner.
What is the standard font for an MLA cover page?
+The standard font for an MLA cover page is 12-point Times New Roman.
What information should be included on an MLA cover page?
+An MLA cover page should include the student’s name, the instructor’s name, the course name and number, the assignment title, and the date.
How should the date be formatted on an MLA cover page?
+The date should be formatted as day-month-year (e.g. 22 February 2023).
