How to Check Your MLA Formatted Paper for Errors

Checking Your MLA Formatted Paper for Errors

As you work on your research paper in MLA 9th Edition format, it's easy to overlook small errors that can make a big difference in the overall quality of your submission. In this article, we'll show you how to check your MLA formatted paper for common errors and ensure that it meets the formatting requirements.

Section 1: Checking Headings

One simple way to catch errors is by checking headings consistently throughout your paper. Here's a tip:

• Check each heading to make sure it follows the correct format, which includes:
  • Centered font (e.g., Times New Roman)
  • Double-spacing
  • No margin or indentation
  • One-inch margins on all sides
  • Use an MLA 9th Edition heading style (e.g., "The History of America")

Section 2: Verifying In-Text Citations

In-text citations are another critical aspect to double-check. Here's how:

• Check each in-text citation for accuracy, using the correct author-page number format:
  • One space after the period
  • No extra spaces or commas
  • Use parenthetical citations (e.g., (Smith 23) if there is only one source cited)
• Verify that you're not missing any sources or misrepresenting information

Section 3: Reviewing Works Cited Entries

Works Cited entries are often overlooked, but they're essential to a well-formatted paper. Here's how:

• Check each Works Cited entry for accuracy and consistency:
  • Make sure the format is correct (e.g., MLA 9th Edition guidelines)
  • Use only the required information (author, title, publication date, etc.)
  • Verify that the source order makes sense chronologically
• Look for any inconsistencies or formatting errors

Section 4: Checking Page Numbers and Spacing

Proper page numbers and spacing are crucial in MLA format. Here's what to check:

• Ensure that your paper includes a running head with your last name (e.g., Smith, p. 1)
• Verify that each page has the correct page number:
  • Centered font on top right corner of the first page
  • Double-spacing throughout the entire paper
• Check for any inconsistent spacing or formatting

Section 5: Checking Header and Footer Information

Headers and footers are easy to overlook, but they're essential in MLA format. Here's what to check:

• Verify that your header includes:
  • Your last name (e.g., Smith)
  • Page number
  • Double-spacing throughout the entire paper
• Check that your footer doesn't include any information (no extra margins or lines)

Section 6: Checking for Plagiarism and Originality

Finally, ensure that you're not unintentionally plagiarizing or misrepresenting sources. Here's what to do:

• Run a plagiarism check on your entire paper using tools like Grammarly or Turnitin
• Verify that all sources are properly cited in the Works Cited page
• Double-check for any inconsistencies or formatting errors

Conclusion

By following these simple tips, you can catch common errors and ensure that your MLA formatted paper meets the formatting requirements. Remember to be thorough and meticulous when reviewing your work, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you're unsure about anything.