Creating an MLA cover page is a straightforward process that can be accomplished with a few simple steps. The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is commonly used in the humanities, such as literature, language, and cultural studies. An MLA cover page, also known as a title page, is not always required, but it can be useful for longer research papers or when specifically requested by an instructor.
MLA Cover Page Guidelines
According to the MLA Handbook, 8th edition, the cover page should include the following elements: your name, your instructor’s name, the course name and number, and the date, all double-spaced and centered. However, the MLA style does not require a separate title page for most papers, unless the instructor asks for one. In such cases, the information is placed on the first page of the paper, not on a separate cover page.
MLA Cover Page Template
Here is a simple template you can follow to create your MLA cover page, assuming your instructor requires one:
Centered on the page, about one-third of the way down:
Your Name
Your Instructor's Name
Course Name and Number
Date
Note: Each of these lines should be double-spaced, but since MLA typically doesn't use a cover page for most papers, this information will usually appear on the first page of your essay, in the top left corner, with the last name and page number in the upper right corner of each subsequent page.
MLA Header and First Page
For most MLA-style papers, you will include your last name and page numbers in the upper right corner of each page, including the first. On the first page, you also include your name, instructor’s name, course, and date in the upper left corner, but this is considered part of the header, not a separate cover page.
The first page of an MLA paper, when a cover page is not specifically requested, would look like this:
Upper Left Corner:
Your Name
Instructor's Name
Course Name and Number
Date
Upper Right Corner (starting from the first page and throughout the document):
Last Name Page Number
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Your Name | Your full name as it appears on official documents. |
| Instructor's Name | The full name of the instructor teaching the course. |
| Course Name and Number | The official name and number of the course. |
| Date | The date the paper is submitted. |
Best Practices for Creating an MLA Cover Page
While an MLA cover page is not typically required, understanding how to format the first page of your paper is crucial. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use a standard font, such as 12-point Times New Roman.
- Double-space your text, including the information on the first page.
- Leave one-inch margins on all sides.
- Ensure your name, instructor’s name, course, and date are correctly spelled and formatted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some common mistakes include incorrectly formatted headers, wrong font or spacing, and missing or incorrect information on the first page. Always proofread your work carefully and use the MLA Handbook or an online resource as a guide.
Do I need an MLA cover page for every paper?
+No, MLA style does not typically require a separate cover page for most papers. However, it’s always best to check with your instructor.
What information should be included on an MLA first page when no cover page is used?
+Your name, instructor’s name, course name and number, and the date, followed by the title of your paper, all double-spaced.
How do I format the first page of an MLA paper?
+Place your name, instructor’s name, course, and date in the upper left corner. Your last name and page number should appear in the upper right corner of each page, starting with the first page.
