MLA Formatting English 112 K. Beam

General Notes Always use Times New Roman, 12pt. No exceptions 1in margins (this should be the standard … don’t change it!) Make sure the “after” spacing is “0” Always double space. Don’t hit enter twice. You’ll double-double space Paragraphs are at least 5 sentences!

Headings Always on the left side Your Name Instructor’s Name Class Date (25 August 2015)

Page Numbers Start on first page ½ in from top margin Use “header” tool to input last name and page number Check different first page so that you don’t have every page listed as page 1

Title Centered No underlining, bold, punctuation, quotations, fancy stuff Don’t use the prompt as your title! Create your own name – it’s your baby

Introduction You should intro the author and text along with basic information within this paragraph. Give background information that leads UP TO your thesis. The last sentence is your THESIS. This is something YOU come up with. NOT a quote or facts. Create an opinion that you will argue.

Body Paragraphs Start every paragraph with a topic sentence. This is a claim that should relate to your thesis. Include a transition phrase to connect previous ideas to the one you’re starting. This helps your reader move through your paper logically.

CONCRETE EVIDENCE Body Paragraphs This means page numbers and direct quotes. Ambiguous evidence will lose your points and you’ll also lose your reader and your argument.

Body Paragraphs Analyze your evidence. This is your own words! How does this evidence support your topic sentence? (Which ultimately leads back to your thesis!!) Avoid summary. Analysis = good, Summary = bad. Sometimes plot details are necessary to make a point, but avoid extensive summaries and do NOT let this substitute for your analysis. Answer WHY it matters not WHAT it is.

Body Paragraphs End with your strongest piece of evidence. Intro/Topic Sentence 2nd strongest evidence 3rd strongest evidence 1st strongest evidence Conclusion Have a concluding sentence that wraps everything up and reminds the reader of the topic sentence.

Conclusion Sometimes the hardest part! Restate your thesis – remind your audience WHY they’re reading your paper. Don’t repeat your points, but tie in key words or phrases. Create a closing remark that reminds the reader of the purpose. Apply your argument back out to the whole world – the big picture.