Common Mistakes in MLA Formatting and How to Avoid Them

Common Mistakes in MLA Formatting and How to Avoid Them

The Modern Language Association (MLA) has updated its formatting guidelines to the 9th edition, but many students are still struggling with the changes. In this article, we'll explore common mistakes in MLA formatting and provide practical tips on how to avoid them.

Section 1: Using the Wrong Header Style

One of the most common mistakes in MLA formatting is using the wrong header style. The MLA recommends using a running head with the student's last name and page number in the upper-right corner of every page. However, many students mistakenly use the title or a generic phrase like "References" as their header.

• Tip: Make sure to check your header regularly by looking at the top right corner of each page.
• Example: Instead of using a generic header, make sure to include your last name and page number, like this: [Last Name] Page 1

Section 2: Incorrect Indentation and Spacing

Another common mistake is incorrect indentation and spacing. The MLA recommends using a half-inch indent for the first line of each paragraph, but many students mistakenly use a full inch or forget to indent altogether.

• Tip: Use the tab key or a paragraph indentation feature in your word processor to achieve the correct half-inch indentation.
• Example: Make sure to indent only the first line of each paragraph, like this:

    The sun was setting over the horizon as I walked along the beach.

Section 3: Inconsistent Citation Styles

Citing sources is an essential part of MLA formatting, but many students struggle with inconsistent citation styles. The MLA recommends using either parenthetical citations or a Works Cited page, but some students use both or neither.

• Tip: Choose one citation style and stick to it throughout your paper.
• Example: Instead of using parentheses for in-text citations (Smith 23), consider using the author-page format on your Works Cited page:     Smith, John. The History of the World. New York: Random House, 2010.

Section 4: Incorrect Citation Formats

Citation formats can be confusing, especially with the introduction of the MLA's new 9th edition. The MLA recommends using the author-page format for most sources, but some students use incorrect formats or forget to include necessary information.

• Tip: Check the Works Cited page and in-text citations regularly to ensure consistency.
• Example: Make sure to include the publication date and publisher information for online sources:     John Smith. "The Impact of Climate Change." Environmental News, 20 Feb. 2020, www.environmentalnews.org/2020/02/20/climate-change-impacts/

Section 5: Ignoring Headings and Subheadings

Headings and subheadings are essential in MLA formatting, but many students ignore them or use incorrect formats.

• Tip: Use clear and concise headings that follow the standard MLA format.
• Example: Instead of using an underline for headings ( The Impact of Climate Change ), consider using title case with a space between the heading and the first line of text:     THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE

Conclusion

By avoiding common mistakes in MLA formatting, you can ensure your paper is well-organized, easy to read, and free of errors. Remember to check your header regularly, use correct indentation and spacing, choose one citation style and stick to it, and follow proper citation formats. With practice and patience, mastering MLA formatting will become second nature, and you'll be able to produce high-quality papers that meet the highest standards.