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How to Write an Essay Outline: Examples, FAQs & Tips
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An essay outline is a structured plan that organizes the main points and supporting details of an essay before writing. It guides the flow of ideas and ensures that each section of the essay is logically connected and coherent.
In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to build a strong essay outline. You'll discover how to define your thesis, arrange your main points, and structure your outline for clarity and effectiveness. If you're still having trouble putting your outline together after reading this, EssayService can provide expert help to make sure your essay is well-structured and persuasive!
Basic Elements of an Essay
An essay begins with an introduction, which is followed by one or more body paragraphs that expand on the points introduced. It ends with a conclusion that restates the thesis and summarizes the main ideas from the body paragraphs.
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Introduction
The introduction of an essay introduces the topic and engages the reader from the start. It usually starts with a hook—a statement or question that grabs attention. After the hook, some background information is given to provide context for the topic.
The introduction ends with a thesis statement, which clearly presents the main argument or purpose of the essay. This section not only introduces the topic but also outlines what the essay will cover, setting the tone for what follows.
Avoid these pitfalls:
- Don't try to cover too much ground in your introduction.
- Avoid vagueness. Be specific and precise in your language.
Body Paragraphs
The body of the essay is where your main ideas and arguments take shape. Each paragraph should open with a topic sentence that clearly states the main point. This is followed by supporting details like evidence, examples, and analysis that back up the topic sentence.
Smooth transitions between paragraphs are key to maintaining a logical flow throughout the essay. Together, the body paragraphs build and support the thesis by adding depth and detail to your argument.
Remember these tips for effective body paragraphs:
- Begin each paragraph with a clear and concise topic sentence.
- Use specific examples, facts, or quotes to support your point.
- Explain why the evidence is important and how it relates to your argument.
The conclusion of an essay wraps up the argument and reinforces the thesis. It usually starts by restating the thesis and reflecting on the discussion and evidence presented in the body paragraphs. A brief summary of the main points follows, highlighting the key arguments made throughout the essay.
The conclusion should close with a final thought or call to action, leaving the reader with something to think about or a sense of closure. The aim is to make a lasting impression that emphasizes the importance of the essay's conclusions.
Remember these tips:
- Briefly recap the key arguments you've made.
- Leave the reader with a thought-provoking final sentence or a call to action.
- Don't introduce any new ideas or arguments in your conclusion.
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How to Write an Essay Outline?
Now, let's dive into the heart of this article and show you how to write an essay outline in just four smart steps:
- Determining your thesis and key arguments
- Organizing points into sections
- Adding supporting details
- Drafting a rough outline
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Determine Your Thesis and Key Arguments
Your thesis should present a specific point of view or a central idea that your essay will support or explore. Here's how to identify your thesis:
- Ask a question: What is the main point you want to convey?
- Brainstorm: Jot down ideas related to your topic.
- Refine your ideas: Narrow down your focus and develop a clear argument.
Once you have your thesis, identify the main points that support it. These points should be logical, relevant, and comprehensive.
- Divide your thesis: Break down your thesis into its key components.
- Create a mind map: Visually organize your ideas.
- Ask yourself questions: What are the main reasons for your argument? What evidence supports your claims?
Group Main Ideas into Sections
The best way to organize your main points when writing an essay outline depends on the specific topic and purpose of your essay. Experiment with different arrangements to find the one that works best for you. Here are some strategies for organizing your main points:
Use this when | Example | |
---|---|---|
Chronological Order | Your essay is about a sequence of events or a process. | An essay about the history of the French Revolution could be organized chronologically, starting with the causes and ending with the aftermath. |
Spatial Order | Your essay is describing a physical space or object. | An essay about the architecture of the Colosseum could be organized spatially, moving from the exterior to the interior. |
Order of Importance | Your main points vary in significance. | An essay arguing for stricter gun control laws might begin with the most compelling argument and end with the least compelling. |
Compare and Contrast Order | Your essay examines similarities and differences between two or more things. | An essay comparing the philosophies of Plato and Aristotle could be organized by alternating between points of similarity and difference. |
Add Details to Each Main Idea
When working on your essay outline, remember to choose supporting details that are relevant, specific, and convincing. The more evidence you can provide, the stronger your arguments will be. Consider these tips for developing supporting details for each one.
- Provide examples: "For example, the Great Depression led to a significant increase in homelessness and poverty."
- Cite expert opinions: "As the renowned historian, Eric Hobsbawm, once said, 'The French Revolution was a watershed moment in European history.'"
- Make comparisons and contrasts: "While both cats and dogs make excellent pets, cats are generally more independent, while dogs are more social."
- Offer definitions: "A democracy is a form of government in which the people have the power to elect their leaders."
Make a Rough Outline
Once you've developed supporting details for each main point, you're ready to create a draft outline. This outline will serve as a roadmap for your essay, guiding you through the writing process.
Here's a basic outline template:
- Background information
- Thesis statement
Body Paragraph 1
- Topic sentence
- Supporting detail 1
- Supporting detail 2
- Supporting detail 3
Body Paragraph 2
Body Paragraph 3
- Restate thesis
- Summarize key points
- Final thought
Remember to:
- Use consistent formatting: Indent supporting details.
- Label sections clearly: Use Roman numerals for main points and letters for supporting details.
- Be flexible: Adjust your outline as needed to accommodate new ideas or changes in your argument.
Essay Outline Examples
Now that you have an understanding of the basic structure of an essay outline let's explore some specific examples tailored to different essay genres. Remember, these are just templates, and you should feel free to adapt each essay outline example to fit your unique needs and writing style.
Argumentative Essay Outline
I. Introduction
- Hook: A captivating opening sentence to grab the reader's attention.
- Background information: Relevant context to the topic.
- Thesis statement: A clear and concise statement of your argument.
II. Body Paragraph 1
- Topic sentence: The main point of this paragraph.
- Supporting evidence: Facts, statistics, examples, or expert opinions to support your argument.
- Explanation: Analysis of the evidence and its relevance to your thesis.
III. Body Paragraph 2
- Topic sentence: The second main point of your argument.
- Supporting evidence: Facts, statistics, examples, or expert opinions.
IV. Body Paragraph 3
- Topic sentence: The third main point of your argument.
V. Counterargument
- Acknowledge opposing viewpoint: Briefly mention a counterargument.
- Refute counterargument: Provide evidence or reasoning to disprove the opposing viewpoint.
VI. Conclusion
- Restate thesis: Reiterate your main argument.
- Summarize key points: Briefly recap the main supporting points.
- Final thought: Leave the reader with a memorable and impactful statement.
Expository Essay Outline
- A. Hook: Start with an engaging statement or fact to grab the reader's attention.
- B. Background Information: Provide context or background information necessary for understanding the topic.
- C. Thesis Statement: Clearly state the main point or purpose of the essay.
- A. Topic Sentence: Introduce the main idea of the paragraph.
- B. Explanation/Detail: Provide a detailed explanation or description of the first point.
- C. Evidence/Example: Include evidence or examples to support the explanation.
- D. Analysis: Explain how the evidence or example supports the topic sentence.
- B. Explanation/Detail: Provide a detailed explanation or description of the second point.
- B. Explanation/Detail: Provide a detailed explanation or description of the third point.
V. Conclusion
- A. Restate Thesis: Restate the thesis in a new way, summarizing the main points of the essay.
- B. Summary of Main Points: Briefly summarize the key points discussed in the body paragraphs.
- C. Final Thought: End with a concluding statement that reinforces the significance of the topic or provides a closing thought.
Persuasive Essays Outline
- Background information: Provide context or history related to your topic.
- Thesis statement: Clearly state your argument or position.
- Main argument: Present your strongest argument in support of your thesis.
- Supporting evidence: Use facts, statistics, examples, or expert opinions to back up your argument.
- Counterargument: Briefly acknowledge an opposing viewpoint.
- Rebuttal: Refute the counterargument with evidence or reasoning.
- Main argument: Present your second strongest argument in support of your thesis.
- Main argument: Present your third strongest argument in support of your thesis.
- Restate thesis: Briefly rephrase your argument.
- Summarize key points: Recap the main supporting arguments.
- Call to action: Encourage the reader to take a specific action or adopt a particular viewpoint.
Final Words
As we sum up this article, let's recap the main steps for writing an outline:
- Determine the main argument or purpose of your essay.
- Break down your thesis into key ideas or arguments.
- Group related ideas together under clear headings.
- Include evidence, examples, and explanations for each main point.
- Arrange everything in a logical order, ensuring a smooth flow from one section to the next.
To ensure your writing is well-structured and effective, rely on EssayService, which is here to help with any type of essay.
Frequently asked questions
- Linford, J. (2014). Essay Planning: Outlining with a Purpose What Is an Outline? How Do I Develop an Outline? https://www.sjsu.edu/writingcenter/docs/handouts/Essay%20Planning%20-%20Outlining.pdf
- Writing an Outline for your essay | MacOdrum Library . (n.d.). Library.carleton.ca . https://library.carleton.ca/guides/help/writing-outline-your-essay
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A header for an essay is an important part of APA or MLA formatting guidelines . In this article, we’ll find out the purpose of an essay header, how to format it, and the APA and MLA essay header variations.
A properly formatted header helps your professor quickly and easily identify your essay. In APA format , the essay header also carries a gist of your larger topic, providing the reader with basic information about your essay in one glance.
Let’s take a more detailed look at how to write a header for an essay.
Ensure top-notch essay formatting! Get started
What is a header in an essay?
A header for an essay is a line of text typically included at the top of the page. The content of the header depends on your essay header format. The MLA essay header includes your last name whereas the APA essay header includes a shortened title of your essay.
The use of a header is especially important in longer essays, as it helps professors navigate the document with ease. The page number helps them locate specific information quickly and the author’s name helps them associate each essay with the student who wrote it.
MLA essay header
The Modern Language Association (MLA), often used in literature and humanities essays, requires a specific type of header. It consists of your last name, followed by a space and then the page number. Thus, the MLA essay header helps the instructor easily associate your work with you amidst a sea of other assignments.
The header for an MLA format essay is typically placed in the top right-hand corner of each page of the document. The information is right-aligned, double-spaced, and is usually preceded by a 0.5-inch margin.
Here’s an essay header example to help you understand:
It is important to note that the MLA essay header is not the same as a title page. The title page is a separate page that includes the essay title, your name, the course title, and the date of submission. The MLA format essay header is simply a standardized way to format page numbers and your personal information within the document itself.
APA essay header
The American Psychological Association (APA) usually requires a header to be included in both student and professional essays. The APA essay header includes an abbreviated title of the essay along with the page number.
The title should be in all capital letters and should not be more than 50 characters long. It should be included on the top left corner of the page. The page number should be included opposite the title, in the top right corner of the page.
Take a look at this essay header example:
It is important to note that running head in an APA essay header is optional for students but compulsory for professionals. While the header must be present in both types of APA essays, the elements differ.
How to write a header for an essay
1. To activate the header for an essay, double-right-click on the top of the page.
If you need additional help with headers and other formatting guidelines, you can also consider working with a professional essay editing service .
Want to keep reading? Here are the newest articles we’ve worked on:
- How to Write an Essay in 8 Simple Steps
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the header and title exactly the same, should i use my full name in the mla header, what are running apa headers.
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How to Write Essay Titles and Headers
The deadline for your latest writing assignment is mere minutes away. You’re rushing to get the final details together and suddenly realize you’ve forgotten a title. You quickly throw something random on top of the page and submit it to your teacher.
You’re not satisfied with your title, but you vow to do better next time. And you will!
![what to write in the header of an essay Waiting until last minute to come up with a title for your writing assignment is never a good idea. This is the first detail your readers notice and should not only prepare them for what they’ll read but intrigue them as well.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62ac8d0645a0685a389def23/62b11b8181713969e6421aca_how-to-write-essay-titles-and-headers.jpeg)
You’ve learned from your mistake: essay titles are not a last-minute detail. They’re an integral part of any piece of written work and should be planned out earlier on in the writing process.
Titles lead to your reader’s first impression of your essay, and the headings help organize your thoughts and make the essay easier to read. Let’s take a look at how you can turn your titles from an afterthought into a well-thought-out writing element.
How Do You Write a Great Title?
People DO judge a book by its cover, and they will judge your essay by its title. So writing a strong title is an important part of starting your writing off on the right foot.
Your essay title has two main functions:
- Inform your reader
- Spark your reader’s interest
Additionally, keep in mind these three pointers:
Be clear and concise
Vague titles do not inform the reader. Provide a specific description of what your focus will be. Your audience wants to know precisely what they will be reading.
Bad Example: Oceans
Good Example: Disappearing Ocean Life in the Pacific Rim
Offer an exciting tidbit or interesting fact
If your title is boring, readers will not want to keep reading. Offer them something that will get attention.
Bad Example: How Consumers are Wrongly Spending Money
Good Example: The Seven Million Dollar Mistake
Everyone may be writing a college admissions essay, but don’t title yours: My College Admissions Essay . No matter what the prompt, make your title something that stands out from the stack.
Bad Example: My Research Project
Good Example: Relocating the Human Race to Mars
How Do You Create a Great Header?
Essay headers are often overlooked by writers, but they can really help your readers as they journey through your essay. While the title may get the reader hooked, the headers keep them moving smoothly through your paper. They enhance readability and help explain what is most relevant in the essay.
Each essay header should answer these two questions:
- What will I learn?
- What is the focus?
When readers approach a new section of your essay, they will have a better reading experience if they have a small preview of what’s to come.
![what to write in the header of an essay Essay headers should answer two questions for your reader: What will I learn? and What is the focus?](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/62ac8d0645a0685a389def23/62b11ba08e1456665654967d_essay-headers-answer-two-questions-learn-focus.jpeg)
Writing a useful header should be relatively easy. Read through your paragraphs and see what the main idea of is. From here, make a list of sub-topics that are discussed in each section. The best way to do this is to pull from the main points you listed out in your outline (which you, of course, remembered to do!).
Remember the following details about writing a header:
Be simple, but informative
You don’t want to give away all of your ideas here, but you need to give some guiding information.
Bad Example: Eating Too Many Fatty Foods Can Increase Your Cholesterol Levels
Good Example: How Your Diet Affects Your Health
Be consistent throughout your essay.
Choose a pattern and stick with it throughout the entirety of the assignment. If you start off by having a heading for each paragraph, keep it that way until the end. Also, make sure the format remains the same. If your first heading is in the form of a question, all of the rest should be as well.
Bad Example: Beaches, What is Up With Littering?, I Want to Clean Up the Planet
Good Example: Neglected Beaches, Effects of Litter, Motivated Activists
Just like when you are writing a title, there are generic headings you can lean on to get it done quick and easy. But don’t use these. Your conclusion shouldn’t have the header, "Conclusion." Come up with something unique for each part of your essay to keep your reader from feeling fatigued as they read on.
Bad Example: Conclusion
Good Example: Will the Pandas Survive?
Be organized and helpful
Your essay should be scannable. This means that if someone needs information fast, they can find it without having to read every word of your piece.
Although titles and headers are often neglected, they are very important to your pieces of writing. They grab your reader’s attention from the start and keep them focused throughout the rest of your essay. Taking the time to craft great titles and headers can advance your writing to the next level.
Don’t overlook the title and section headers when putting together your next writing assignment. Follow these pointers for keeping your writing organized and effective.
101 Standout Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas
Need a topic for your upcoming argumentative essay? We've got 100 helpful prompts to help you get kickstarted on your next writing assignment.
Writing a Standout College Admissions Essay
Your personal statement is arguably the most important part of your college application. Follow these guidelines for an exceptional admissions essay.
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How to Write a Header for an Essay: MLA vs. APA Format
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Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- An effective essay header typically includes the title, the student's name, and course information, which provides essential context for the reader and ensures proper attribution of the work.
- The differences between headings and titles are significant: a title is the main label for the essay and appears at the top of the first page, whereas headings are used throughout the essay to organize content into sections.
- When crafting a compelling title, it should be specific, include key terms related to the topic, be concise, potentially use a subtitle for additional context, and utilize title case for capitalization.
- The formatting of an essay's first page differs depending on the citation style. In MLA format, the header should include the student's full name, instructor's name, course name, and date in the top left corner, with the title centered. APA format requires a separate title page with specific information and a running head on every page.
- Common mistakes to avoid in essay headers include inconsistent formatting, incorrect capitalization, forgetting page numbers, using the wrong font, improper spacing, misplacing the running head (for APA), and not including all necessary information.
When you’re diving into the world of academic writing, one of the first hurdles you’ll face is crafting the perfect header for your essay. A header for an essay is a line of text typically included at the top of the page. It might seem like a small detail, but trust me, it’s crucial.
As someone who’s been through the ups and downs of essay writing , I’m here to guide you through the process of how to write a header for an essay, that not only meets academic standards but also sets the tone for your entire piece. Think of your essay header as the first impression you make on your reader – it’s your chance to show them you mean business!
How do you write a header for an essay? To write a header for an essay, include your last name and the page number in the upper right corner of every page.
For MLA header format, place your last name and page number 0.5 inches from the top of the page, while for APA format, include a shortened version of your essay title (up to 50 characters) along with the page number. The specific content and placement may vary depending on the required citation style , but generally, an essay header should be concise, informative, and consistently formatted throughout your paper.
Now, let’s break down the elements of an effective essay header and walk through the process step by step. Whether you’re dealing with MLA style , APA style, or another style guide, I’ve got you covered. Let’s make sure your essay starts on the right foot!
The Elements of an Effective Essay Header
When I first started writing essays, I was surprised to learn that a well-crafted essay header typically consists of three key components: the title, your name, and the course information. These elements work together to provide essential context for your reader and ensure your work is properly attributed.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these components:
- Title: This is the heart of your header. It should be concise yet descriptive, giving readers a clear idea of what to expect from your essay. We’ll dive deeper into crafting compelling titles later.
- Your name: This seems obvious, but it’s crucial. Always include your full name as the student who wrote the essay.
- Course information: This typically includes your course title, instructor’s name, and date of submission. This information helps contextualize your work within your academic journey.
Remember, the exact placement and formatting of these elements can vary depending on whether you’re using MLA format, APA format, or another style guide. Don’t worry, though – we’ll cover those differences in detail as we go along.
Headings vs. Titles: Understanding the Difference
![How to Write a Header for an Essay: MLA vs. APA Format 1 Headings vs. Titles](https://essayfreelancewriters.com/wp-content/uploads/Headings-vs.-Titles-410x1024.webp)
Now, before we dive deeper into the nitty-gritty of formatting, let’s clear up a common source of confusion: the difference between headings and titles. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they serve distinct purposes in academic writing.
A title is the main label for your entire essay. It’s what you see at the top of the first page and what appears in the table of contents (if your essay has one). Your title should encapsulate the main idea or argument of your entire paper.
Headings, on the other hand, are used to organize the content within your essay. They break up your text into sections and subsections, making it easier for readers to navigate your ideas. You might have main headings (usually in bold or larger font) and subheadings throughout your essay.
Understanding this distinction is crucial because it affects how you format your paper. Your essay header includes the title, while headings are used throughout the body of your essay to structure your arguments.
Crafting a Compelling Title
Now that we’ve cleared up the difference between headings and titles, let’s focus on crafting a compelling title for your essay. Your title is like the cover of a book – it’s the first thing your reader sees, and it needs to grab their attention.
Here are some tips I’ve learned for creating titles that pack a punch:
- Be specific: Your title should give a clear idea of what your essay is about. For example, instead of “Education Essay,” try “The Impact of Online Learning on Student Performance in High School Mathematics.”
- Use keywords: Include key terms related to your topic. This helps readers quickly understand your focus and can also be beneficial for search engines if your essay is published online.
- Keep it concise: Aim for a title that’s informative but not overly long. A good rule of thumb is to keep it under 12 words.
- Consider using a subtitle: If you need to provide more context, a subtitle can be helpful. For example: “Digital Classrooms: The Impact of Online Learning on Student Performance in High School Mathematics.”
- Use title case: Capitalize the first letter of each major word. For example: “The Impact of Online Learning on Student Performance in High School Mathematics.”
Remember, your title is your first chance to engage your reader. Take the time to craft something that’s both informative and intriguing. After all, amidst a sea of essays, you want yours to stand out!
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Formatting the First Page of Your Paper
Now that we’ve got a killer title, let’s talk about how to format the first page of your paper. This is where things can get a bit technical, but don’t worry – I’ll walk you through it step by step.
The formatting of your first page largely depends on whether you’re using modern language association (MLA) or APA style. Let’s break down both:
MLA Format:
![How to Write a Header for an Essay: MLA vs. APA Format 2 MLA Format for first page](https://essayfreelancewriters.com/wp-content/uploads/MLA-Format-for-first-page-1024x576.webp)
- Your full name
- Your instructor’s name
- The course name
- Center your title about one-third of the way down the page.
- Start your essay immediately after the title.
- In the upper right corner, include your last name and the page number.
APA Format:
![How to Write a Header for an Essay: MLA vs. APA Format 3 APA Format for the first page](https://essayfreelancewriters.com/wp-content/uploads/APA-Format-for-the-first-page-1024x576.webp)
- APA requires a separate page for the title.
- The title of your paper (centered, about 3-4 lines down from the top of the page)
- Your institutional affiliation (e.g., your school)
- Include a running head on every page, including the title page. This is a shortened version of your title (up to 50 characters) that appears in the header along with the page number. This should be right-aligned to the corner of the page in capital letters.
Remember, regardless of the format you’re using, your essay should be double-spaced with 1-inch margins on all sides. Use a readable font like Times New Roman in 12-point size.
As we transition to discussing common mistakes, keep in mind that paying attention to these details from the start can save you a lot of headaches later on!
Read More: Essay Title Page: Everything You Need to Know
Common Mistakes to Avoid
As someone who’s made plenty of formatting mistakes in my time, I can tell you that they’re easy to make but also easy to avoid if you know what to look out for. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of when creating your essay header:
- Inconsistent formatting: Make sure your header is consistent across all pages. In MLA format , your last name and page number should appear in the upper right corner of every page, including the Works Cited page.
- Incorrect capitalization: I n titles, capitalize all major words and any word that’s four letters or longer. For example: “The Impact of Social Media on Modern Communication.”
- Forgetting page numbers: It’s easy to overlook, but page numbers are crucial. They help your reader (and you!) navigate the document easily.
- Using the wrong font: Stick to standard, readable fonts like Times New Roman or Arial. Avoid fancy or decorative fonts that might distract from your content.
- Improper spacing: Ensure your entire document, including the header, is double-spaced. This improves readability and gives your instructor space for comments.
- Misplacing the running head in APA: In APA format, the running head should appear on every page, including the title page. It’s a shortened version of your title, up to 50 characters long.
- Forgetting to include all necessary information: Make sure you’ve included all required elements – your name, course information, date, and title.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’re already ahead of the game. Remember, attention to detail in your header shows that you’re meticulous and care about presenting your work professionally.
Tips for Making Your Header Stand Out
Now that we’ve covered the basics and common pitfalls, let’s talk about how to make your header stand out. While it’s important to follow the guidelines of your chosen format, there’s still room for a bit of creativity. Here are some tips I’ve picked up along the way:
- Use descriptive language in your title: Instead of a generic title like “Essay on Climate Change,” try something more specific and engaging like “Rising Tides: The Urgent Need for Climate Action in Coastal Communities.”
- Consider using a subtitle: If your main title is catchy but not quite descriptive enough, a subtitle can provide additional context. For example: “Digital Natives: How Generation Z is Reshaping the Landscape of Online Communication.”
- Pay attention to font choice: While you should stick to standard fonts, you can still choose one that complements your writing style. Just make sure it’s easily readable.
- Use bold or italics sparingly: If your style guide allows it, you might use bold or italics to emphasize keywords in your title. But remember, less is often more.
- Ensure proper alignment: In MLA, your header should be flush left, while in APA header in an essay, it should be centered. Proper alignment gives your paper a clean, professional look.
- Consider your audience : Tailor your title to appeal to your intended readers. A title that works for a scientific journal might not be appropriate for a more general audience.
Remember, while these tips can help your header stand out, the most important thing is that it accurately represents the content of your essay. A flashy header won’t make up for weak content, but a well-crafted header can certainly enhance strong writing.
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Tailoring Your Header to Different Essay Types
As we wrap up our discussion on essay headers, it’s important to note that different types of essays may require slight variations in header style. Let’s explore how you might adapt your approach based on the type of essay you’re writing:
- Research Papers : For research papers, your header might include additional information like the name of the research institution or funding body. In APA format, you’ll need to include a running head with a shortened title of your essay.
- Argumentative Essays : In these essays, your title could reflect your stance on the issue. For example: “The Case for Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Economic Inequality.”
- Narrative Essays : For personal narratives, you might use a more creative title that hints at the story you’re about to tell. For example: “Lessons from the Summit: My Journey to Mount Everest’s Base Camp.”
- Compare and Contrast Essays : Your title should indicate the subjects being compared. For instance: “Apple vs. Android: A Comparative Analysis of Smartphone Operating Systems.”
- Group Projects : If you’re working on a group project, you’ll need to include all group members’ names in the header. Typically, you’d list names alphabetically by last name.
Remember, regardless of the essay type, always follow the specific guidelines provided by your instructor or institution. They may have particular requirements that supersede general formatting rules.
Conclusion on How to Write a Header for an Essay
As we’ve journeyed through the ins and outs of how to write a header for an essay, I hope you’ve come to see it as more than just a formality. Your header is the first impression your essay makes, setting the tone for everything that follows. It’s a small but crucial part of your academic writing that demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.
We’ve covered a lot of ground, from understanding the difference between headings and titles to tailoring your header for different types of essays. We’ve discussed the intricacies of MLA and APA formatting, common mistakes to avoid, and tips to make your header stand out.
Remember, whether you’re formatting your header in the upper right corner or creating a separate title page, consistency is key. Pay attention to details like capitalization, font choice, and proper alignment. These small elements can make a big difference in how your essay is perceived.
As you continue your academic journey, don’t be afraid to refer back to these guidelines. Practice makes perfect, and soon, creating a stellar essay header will become second nature. And remember, while formatting is important, it’s the content of your essay that truly matters. A great header is just the beginning – it’s what comes after that will truly showcase your ideas and arguments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you write headings for an essay.
Writing headings for an essay involves understanding the structure and purpose of your essay. Typically, headings are used to organize content and make it easier for readers to navigate. To write headings for an essay, start by identifying the main ideas or sections of your essay. Each heading should succinctly reflect the content of that section. Use a consistent formatting style, such as bold or italics, to differentiate headings from the body text. If you’re following specific formatting guidelines, such as MLA format essay header or APA essay header includes, make sure to adhere to those standards for a professional appearance.
How to properly write a header?
To properly write a header, ensure it contains essential information that aligns with the requirements of your essay format. For instance, in MLA format essay header, the header typically includes your name, your instructor’s name, the course title, and the date, all placed in the left corner of the page. It should be double-spaced and use a readable font like Times New Roman. In contrast, an APA and MLA essay header might include a page number on the right corner of the page. Always remember to follow your specific formatting guidelines to achieve a polished look.
What is an example of a topic heading?
An example of a topic heading might be “The Impact of Climate Change on Urban Areas.” This heading indicates what the section will discuss and allows readers to quickly grasp the focus of your content. When creating a heading, make sure it is descriptive yet concise. Consider using an abbreviated version of the title if your essay has a long title, ensuring it remains relevant to the content that follows.
How do you write a header for a paragraph?
Writing a header for a paragraph involves creating a brief, focused statement that encapsulates the main idea of that paragraph. For instance, if the paragraph discusses the effects of social media on mental health, a suitable header could be “Social Media and Mental Health.” This not only aids the reader in understanding the paragraph’s thrust but also enhances the overall organization of your essay. Ensure that the header aligns with the overall thesis of your essay and adheres to any specific formatting guidelines you are following.
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How To Write A Header For An Essay That Grabs Your Reader's Attention
Declan Gessel
May 9, 2024
![what to write in the header of an essay woman typing essay - How To Write A Header For An Essay](https://framerusercontent.com/images/O9sBf3VWzqqwrk2g6GlicfqF6A.jpg)
Writing a header for an essay is crucial for setting the tone and providing structure, ensuring clarity and coherence throughout the content. Knowing how to write a header for an essay can significantly impact the overall quality of your work.
In this guide, you will learn the importance of headers, the different types, and the best practices to make your essay stand out. By the end of this post, you will have the necessary skills and knowledge to write compelling headers that engage readers and make your essay cohesive and easy to follow. You will learn tips and tricks on how to write an essay .
Table of Contents
What makes a good essay header, how to grab attention with clear and engaging essay headers, avoiding cliches and overused phrases in your essay headers, 5 pro tips for how to write a header for your essay, write smarter with jotbot — start writing for free today.
![what to write in the header of an essay man feeling good in office - How To Write A Header For An Essay](https://framerusercontent.com/images/3wkTwMDbJcgAypwRoyaR4sGqjo.jpg)
Let’s delve on what makes a good essay header:
Guiding the Reader Through the Essay's Structure
A clear header is like a map. It tells the reader what the upcoming paragraph is about. When readers have this information, they can easily decide if they want to continue reading. For example, if the reader knows a paragraph is about how to write a header for an essay, they will read on.
Avoiding Overly Broad or Vague Headers
Readers want to know what they are getting into before they start reading. Avoid overly broad headers that leave the reader unsure of the content. Make sure the header gives the reader a clue about what is coming next. For example, "Writing a Clear Essay Header" gives readers an idea of what the paragraph will be about.
Acting as Mini-Summaries
Informative headers act as mini-summaries. They give readers a quick preview of what they will read. This helps readers get more out of the paragraph. When readers know what to expect, they can better understand what they are reading.
Using Keywords and Key Phrases
If you can, use keywords or key phrases from the body paragraph in the header. This helps the reader connect the header to the content of the paragraph. For example, if “mini-summaries” is a key phrase in the paragraph, try to use it in the header.
Related Reading
• Argumentative Essay • Essay Format • Expository Essay • Essay Outline • How To Write A Conclusion For An Essay • Transition Sentences • Narrative Essay • Rhetorical Analysis Essay • Persuasive Essay
![what to write in the header of an essay woman concentrating on work - How To Write A Header For An Essay](https://framerusercontent.com/images/c6A7QgrHqvgaxj6aIBQD84N7yc.jpg)
Below are the tips on how to grab engaging headers for essays:
Use Clear Verbs
To write more engaging headers for your essays, switch out passive verbs for active ones. For instance, instead of saying "The Impact is Analyzed," try "Analyzing the Impact." This change adds more punch to your writing, making it more engaging.
Ask Questions
Another way to make your essay headers more captivating is by incorporating questions . Questions pique readers' curiosity, enticing them to read further. For example, you could ask, "Can Technology Solve Climate Change?" This question creates a sense of intrigue that readers can't ignore.
Highlight Key Points
A great way to ensure that your essay header shines is by showcasing the main idea of the section right at the top. For example, instead of using a generic header like "Social Media Influencers," you could opt for "The Rise of Social Media Influencers." This way, readers know exactly what to expect from that particular section.
Keep it Simple
Lastly, when writing headers, remember to keep things straightforward. Don't use overly complex language that might confuse your readers. The aim is to create headers that are easy to understand and resonate with your audience.
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When writing essay headers, it's crucial to steer clear of clichés and overused phrases. These generic terms can easily dull the impact of your writing. Instead, focus on original, engaging, and exciting ways to draw your reader in.
I. The Pitfalls of Clichés and Overused Phrases
Clichés often fall short in two key areas:
1. Lack of Originality
Clichés can sound tired and lackluster, failing to grab the reader's attention.
2. Misrepresenting Content
Overused phrases might not accurately reflect the unique argument of your essay section.
II. Alternatives to Clichéd Language
A. strong verbs and precise nouns.
Steer away from weak verbs and generic terms. Instead, opt for:
Action verbs to capture the essence of your point.
Specific nouns for clarity.
For instance, instead of "The Importance Of Education," try "Cultivating Critical Thinking Skills: The Cornerstone of Education."
B. Figurative Language (Used Sparingly)
Use metaphors, similes, or other figures of speech creatively, but in moderation. For example, "A Web of Deceit: Unraveling the Conspiracy Theory."
C. Active Voice and Questions
Try using an active voice to make your header more engaging and consider sparking curiosity with questions. Instead of "Challenges Faced by Immigrants," try "Navigating New Waters: Challenges and Opportunities for Immigrants."
III. Brainstorming Effective Headers: A Step-by-Step Approach
A. identify keywords.
List your key points or arguments and choose keywords that accurately reflect your essay section.
B. Craft a Clear and Concise Sentence
Construct a sentence using identified keywords and strong verbs/nouns. Ensure it accurately represents your content.
C. Refine for Impact
Consider adding figurative language sparingly to inject intrigue. Explore phrasing options for a more engaging structure.
Avoiding clichés and overused phrases can greatly enhance your headers' impact by keeping readers engaged and interested. Be creative, precise, and original to truly capture the essence of your essay section.
![what to write in the header of an essay man typing his essay - How To Write A Header For An Essay](https://framerusercontent.com/images/iGE6AQT4soodXQofrkRi5mjHEqc.jpg)
1. Mastering Crystal Clear Communication for Your Essay Headers
By being upfront and informative, you can create headers that accurately reflect the content below, letting readers know exactly what they're about to learn. Ditch vague terms like "Healthy Habits" and go for something specific like "Boost Your Energy: 3 Simple Habits for a Healthier You."
2. Igniting Reader Curiosity with Power Words in Your Essay Headers
Weave in powerful words that pique interest and tap into the emotions of your readers. Words like "unlock," "secrets," "ultimate," or "mistakes" can add a spark. Instead of "Email Marketing Tips," use "Unlock the Power of Email: 3 Strategies to Boost Engagement."
3. The Sweet Spot: Keeping Your Essay Headers Short and Sweet
Attention spans are short online. Aim for concise headers that are easy to read and scannable. Focus on the core message and avoid unnecessary fluff.
4. Numbers: Utilizing Numerical Values to Craft Engaging Essay Headers
People love lists! Headers with numbers like "5 SEO Mistakes You Might Be Making" or "7 Hacks to Boost Your Blog Traffic" are easy to scan and instantly communicate value.
5. Sparking Curiosity with Intriguing Questions in Your Essay Headers
Spark curiosity by posing a question that taps into your reader's needs or pain points. For example, instead of "Social Media Marketing," try "Feeling Lost on Social Media? 3 Proven Strategies for Growth."
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Generate accurate MLA citations for free
- Knowledge Base
- MLA format for academic papers and essays
MLA Format | Complete Guidelines & Free Template
Published on December 11, 2019 by Raimo Streefkerk . Revised on May 6, 2024 by Jack Caulfield.
The MLA Handbook provides guidelines for creating MLA citations and formatting academic papers. This includes advice on structuring parenthetical citations, the Works Cited page, and tables and figures. This quick guide will help you set up your MLA format paper in no time.
Cite your MLA source
Start by applying these MLA format guidelines to your document:
- Use an easily readable font like 12 pt Times New Roman
- Set 1 inch page margins
- Use double line spacing
- Include a ½” indent for new paragraphs
- Include a four-line MLA heading on the first page
- Center the paper’s title
- Use title case capitalization for headings
- Cite your sources with MLA in-text citations
- List all sources cited on a Works Cited page at the end
Alternatively, you can automatically apply the formatting with our MLA docx or Google Docs template.
Table of contents
How to set up mla format in google docs, header and title, running head, works cited page, creating mla style citations, headings and subheadings, tables and figures, frequently asked questions about mla format.
The header in MLA format is left-aligned on the first page of your paper. It includes
- Your full name
- Your instructor’s or supervisor’s name
- The course name or number
- The due date of the assignment
After the MLA header, press ENTER once and type your paper title. Center the title and don’t forget to apply title-case capitalization. Read our article on writing strong titles that are informative, striking and appropriate.
![what to write in the header of an essay MLA header](https://www.scribbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/mla-header-1.png)
For a paper with multiple authors, it’s better to use a separate title page instead.
At the top of every page, including the first page, you need to include your last name and the page number. This is called the “running head.” Follow these steps to set up the MLA running head in your Word or Google Docs document:
- Double-click at the top of a page
- Type your last name
- Insert automatic page numbering
- Align the content to the right
The running head should look like this:
![what to write in the header of an essay MLA running head](https://www.scribbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/mla-running-head.png)
The Works Cited list is included on a separate page at the end of your paper. You list all the sources you referenced in your paper in alphabetical order. Don’t include sources that weren’t cited in the paper, except potentially in an MLA annotated bibliography assignment.
Place the title “Works Cited” in the center at the top of the page. After the title, press ENTER once and insert your MLA references.
If a reference entry is longer than one line, each line after the first should be indented ½ inch (called a hanging indent ). All entries are double spaced, just like the rest of the text.
![what to write in the header of an essay Format of an MLA Works Cited page](https://www.scribbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/mla-works-cited-1.png)
Generate accurate MLA citations with Scribbr
Prefer to cite your sources manually? Use the interactive example below to see what the Works Cited entry and MLA in-text citation look like for different source types.
Headings and subheadings are not mandatory, but they can help you organize and structure your paper, especially in longer assignments.
MLA has only a few formatting requirements for headings. They should
- Be written in title case
- Be left-aligned
- Not end in a period
We recommend keeping the font and size the same as the body text and applying title case capitalization. In general, boldface indicates greater prominence, while italics are appropriate for subordinate headings.
Chapter Title
Section Heading
Tip: Both Google Docs and Microsoft Word allow you to create heading levels that help you to keep your headings consistent.
Tables and other illustrations (referred to as “figures”) should be placed as close to the relevant part of text as possible. MLA also provides guidelines for presenting them.
MLA format for tables
Tables are labeled and numbered, along with a descriptive title. The label and title are placed above the table on separate lines; the label and number appear in bold.
A caption providing information about the source appears below the table; you don’t need one if the table is your own work.
Below this, any explanatory notes appear, marked on the relevant part of the table with a superscript letter. The first line of each note is indented; your word processor should apply this formatting automatically.
Just like in the rest of the paper, the text is double spaced and you should use title case capitalization for the title (but not for the caption or notes).
![what to write in the header of an essay MLA table](https://www.scribbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/mla-table.png)
MLA format for figures
Figures (any image included in your paper that isn’t a table) are also labeled and numbered, but here, this is integrated into the caption below the image. The caption in this case is also centered.
The label “Figure” is abbreviated to “Fig.” and followed by the figure number and a period. The rest of the caption gives either full source information, or (as in the example here) just basic descriptive information about the image (author, title, publication year).
![what to write in the header of an essay MLA figure](https://www.scribbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/mla-figure.png)
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Source information in table and figure captions
If the caption of your table or figure includes full source information and that source is not otherwise cited in the text, you don’t need to include it in your Works Cited list.
Give full source information in a caption in the same format as you would in the Works Cited list, but without inverting the author name (i.e. John Smith, not Smith, John).
MLA recommends using 12-point Times New Roman , since it’s easy to read and installed on every computer. Other standard fonts such as Arial or Georgia are also acceptable. If in doubt, check with your supervisor which font you should be using.
The main guidelines for formatting a paper in MLA style are as follows:
- Apply double line spacing
- Indent every new paragraph ½ inch
The fastest and most accurate way to create MLA citations is by using Scribbr’s MLA Citation Generator .
Search by book title, page URL, or journal DOI to automatically generate flawless citations, or cite manually using the simple citation forms.
The MLA Handbook is currently in its 9th edition , published in 2021.
This quick guide to MLA style explains the latest guidelines for citing sources and formatting papers according to MLA.
Usually, no title page is needed in an MLA paper . A header is generally included at the top of the first page instead. The exceptions are when:
- Your instructor requires one, or
- Your paper is a group project
In those cases, you should use a title page instead of a header, listing the same information but on a separate page.
Cite this Scribbr article
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English Composition 1
Inserting headers into essays.
According to the MLA (the Modern Language Association), each page of an essay, including the first page, should include the writer's last name and the page number inserted as a header in the upper right corner of the page, as illustrated below:
The header should not be typed where the text of your papers should be. It should be inserted as a header in your word processor so that your last name and the page number appear slightly above the first line of text on each page.
This page explains how to insert a header using Microsoft Word 2010. The procedure for inserting a header will vary depending on what type of word processor you are using, but a similar approach to what is explained below should work in other word processors.
How to Insert a Header in Microsoft Word
Begin by opening in your word processor the document in which you want to add the header.
- Make the "Insert" ribbon active at the top of the screen.
- Click the "Page Number" icon.
- Click "Top of Page."
- Click "Plain Number 3."
![what to write in the header of an essay Inserting Headers](https://facultyweb.ivcc.edu/rrambo/images/Insert_Page_Number_1.png)
- Type your last name and a space just before the page number that will be added to the upper right of your document.
- If the header is not in the correct fonts, highlight your name and the page number, make the "Home" ribbon active, and choose the correct fonts.
![what to write in the header of an essay Inserting Headers](https://facultyweb.ivcc.edu/rrambo/images/Insert_Page_Number_3.png)
Double left mouse click anywhere outside of the header area to return to the text area of your document.
If you need to make changes to the header after you have added it, just double left mouse click in the header area of the document.
If you do not see the header added to your document, the problem most likely is the "View" you are using. To see the document with the header, just make the "View" ribbon active and click "Print Layout."
Copyright Randy Rambo , 2019.
![what to write in the header of an essay American Psychological Association Logo](https://www.apa.org/Content/Images/logo.png)
A step-by-step guide for creating and formatting APA Style student papers
The start of the semester is the perfect time to learn how to create and format APA Style student papers. This article walks through the formatting steps needed to create an APA Style student paper, starting with a basic setup that applies to the entire paper (margins, font, line spacing, paragraph alignment and indentation, and page headers). It then covers formatting for the major sections of a student paper: the title page, the text, tables and figures, and the reference list. Finally, it concludes by describing how to organize student papers and ways to improve their quality and presentation.
The guidelines for student paper setup are described and shown using annotated diagrams in the Student Paper Setup Guide (PDF, 3.40MB) and the A Step-by-Step Guide to APA Style Student Papers webinar . Chapter 1 of the Concise Guide to APA Style and Chapter 2 of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association describe the elements, format, and organization for student papers. Tables and figures are covered in Chapter 7 of both books. Information on paper format and tables and figures and a full sample student paper are also available on the APA Style website.
Basic setup
The guidelines for basic setup apply to the entire paper. Perform these steps when you first open your document, and then you do not have to worry about them again while writing your paper. Because these are general aspects of paper formatting, they apply to all APA Style papers, student or professional. Students should always check with their assigning instructor or institution for specific guidelines for their papers, which may be different than or in addition to APA Style guidelines.
Seventh edition APA Style was designed with modern word-processing programs in mind. Most default settings in programs such as Academic Writer, Microsoft Word, and Google Docs already comply with APA Style. This means that, for most paper elements, you do not have to make any changes to the default settings of your word-processing program. However, you may need to make a few adjustments before you begin writing.
Use 1-in. margins on all sides of the page (top, bottom, left, and right). This is usually how papers are automatically set.
Use a legible font. The default font of your word-processing program is acceptable. Many sans serif and serif fonts can be used in APA Style, including 11-point Calibri, 11-point Arial, 12-point Times New Roman, and 11-point Georgia. You can also use other fonts described on the font page of the website.
Line spacing
Double-space the entire paper including the title page, block quotations, and the reference list. This is something you usually must set using the paragraph function of your word-processing program. But once you do, you will not have to change the spacing for the entirety of your paper–just double-space everything. Do not add blank lines before or after headings. Do not add extra spacing between paragraphs. For paper sections with different line spacing, see the line spacing page.
Paragraph alignment and indentation
Align all paragraphs of text in the body of your paper to the left margin. Leave the right margin ragged. Do not use full justification. Indent the first line of every paragraph of text 0.5-in. using the tab key or the paragraph-formatting function of your word-processing program. For paper sections with different alignment and indentation, see the paragraph alignment and indentation page.
Page numbers
Put a page number in the top right of every page header , including the title page, starting with page number 1. Use the automatic page-numbering function of your word-processing program to insert the page number in the top right corner; do not type the page numbers manually. The page number is the same font and font size as the text of your paper. Student papers do not require a running head on any page, unless specifically requested by the instructor.
Title page setup
Title page elements.
APA Style has two title page formats: student and professional (for details, see title page setup ). Unless instructed otherwise, students should use the student title page format and include the following elements, in the order listed, on the title page:
- Paper title.
- Name of each author (also known as the byline).
- Affiliation for each author.
- Course number and name.
- Instructor name.
- Assignment due date.
- Page number 1 in the top right corner of the page header.
The format for the byline depends on whether the paper has one author, two authors, or three or more authors.
- When the paper has one author, write the name on its own line (e.g., Jasmine C. Hernandez).
- When the paper has two authors, write the names on the same line and separate them with the word “and” (e.g., Upton J. Wang and Natalia Dominguez).
- When the paper has three or more authors, separate the names with commas and include “and” before the final author’s name (e.g., Malia Mohamed, Jaylen T. Brown, and Nia L. Ball).
Students have an academic affiliation, which identities where they studied when the paper was written. Because students working together on a paper are usually in the same class, they will have one shared affiliation. The affiliation consists of the name of the department and the name of the college or university, separated by a comma (e.g., Department of Psychology, George Mason University). The department is that of the course to which the paper is being submitted, which may be different than the department of the student’s major. Do not include the location unless it is part of the institution’s name.
Write the course number and name and the instructor name as shown on institutional materials (e.g., the syllabus). The course number and name are often separated by a colon (e.g., PST-4510: History and Systems Psychology). Write the assignment due date in the month, date, and year format used in your country (e.g., Sept. 10, 2020).
Title page line spacing
Double-space the whole title page. Place the paper title three or four lines down from the top of the page. Add an extra double-spaced blank like between the paper title and the byline. Then, list the other title page elements on separate lines, without extra lines in between.
Title page alignment
Center all title page elements (except the right-aligned page number in the header).
Title page font
Write the title page using the same font and font size as the rest of your paper. Bold the paper title. Use standard font (i.e., no bold, no italics) for all other title page elements.
Text elements
Repeat the paper title at the top of the first page of text. Begin the paper with an introduction to provide background on the topic, cite related studies, and contextualize the paper. Use descriptive headings to identify other sections as needed (e.g., Method, Results, Discussion for quantitative research papers). Sections and headings vary depending on the paper type and its complexity. Text can include tables and figures, block quotations, headings, and footnotes.
Text line spacing
Double-space all text, including headings and section labels, paragraphs of text, and block quotations.
Text alignment
Center the paper title on the first line of the text. Indent the first line of all paragraphs 0.5-in.
Left-align the text. Leave the right margin ragged.
Block quotation alignment
Indent the whole block quotation 0.5-in. from the left margin. Double-space the block quotation, the same as other body text. Find more information on the quotations page.
Use the same font throughout the entire paper. Write body text in standard (nonbold, nonitalic) font. Bold only headings and section labels. Use italics sparingly, for instance, to highlight a key term on first use (for more information, see the italics page).
Headings format
For detailed guidance on formatting headings, including headings in the introduction of a paper, see the headings page and the headings in sample papers .
- Alignment: Center Level 1 headings. Left-align Level 2 and Level 3 headings. Indent Level 4 and Level 5 headings like a regular paragraph.
- Font: Boldface all headings. Also italicize Level 3 and Level 5 headings. Create heading styles using your word-processing program (built into AcademicWriter, available for Word via the sample papers on the APA Style website).
Tables and figures setup
Tables and figures are only included in student papers if needed for the assignment. Tables and figures share the same elements and layout. See the website for sample tables and sample figures .
Table elements
Tables include the following four elements:
- Body (rows and columns)
- Note (optional if needed to explain elements in the table)
Figure elements
Figures include the following four elements:
- Image (chart, graph, etc.)
- Note (optional if needed to explain elements in the figure)
Table line spacing
Double-space the table number and title. Single-, 1.5-, or double-space the table body (adjust as needed for readability). Double-space the table note.
Figure line spacing
Double-space the figure number and title. The default settings for spacing in figure images is usually acceptable (but adjust the spacing as needed for readability). Double-space the figure note.
Table alignment
Left-align the table number and title. Center column headings. Left-align the table itself and left-align the leftmost (stub) column. Center data in the table body if it is short or left-align the data if it is long. Left-align the table note.
Figure alignment
Left-align the figure number and title. Left-align the whole figure image. The default alignment of the program in which you created your figure is usually acceptable for axis titles and data labels. Left-align the figure note.
Bold the table number. Italicize the table title. Use the same font and font size in the table body as the text of your paper. Italicize the word “Note” at the start of the table note. Write the note in the same font and font size as the text of your paper.
Figure font
Bold the figure number. Italicize the figure title. Use a sans serif font (e.g., Calibri, Arial) in the figure image in a size between 8 to 14 points. Italicize the word “Note” at the start of the figure note. Write the note in the same font and font size as the text of your paper.
Placement of tables and figures
There are two options for the placement of tables and figures in an APA Style paper. The first option is to place all tables and figures on separate pages after the reference list. The second option is to embed each table and figure within the text after its first callout. This guide describes options for the placement of tables and figures embedded in the text. If your instructor requires tables and figures to be placed at the end of the paper, see the table and figure guidelines and the sample professional paper .
Call out (mention) the table or figure in the text before embedding it (e.g., write “see Figure 1” or “Table 1 presents”). You can place the table or figure after the callout either at the bottom of the page, at the top of the next page, or by itself on the next page. Avoid placing tables and figures in the middle of the page.
Embedding at the bottom of the page
Include a callout to the table or figure in the text before that table or figure. Add a blank double-spaced line between the text and the table or figure at the bottom of the page.
Embedding at the top of the page
Include a callout to the table in the text on the previous page before that table or figure. The table or figure then appears at the top of the next page. Add a blank double-spaced line between the end of the table or figure and the text that follows.
Embedding on its own page
Embed long tables or large figures on their own page if needed. The text continues on the next page.
Reference list setup
Reference list elements.
The reference list consists of the “References” section label and the alphabetical list of references. View reference examples on the APA Style website. Consult Chapter 10 in both the Concise Guide and Publication Manual for even more examples.
Reference list line spacing
Start the reference list at the top of a new page after the text. Double-space the entire reference list (both within and between entries).
Reference list alignment
Center the “References” label. Apply a hanging indent of 0.5-in. to all reference list entries. Create the hanging indent using your word-processing program; do not manually hit the enter and tab keys.
Reference list font
Bold the “References” label at the top of the first page of references. Use italics within reference list entries on either the title (e.g., webpages, books, reports) or on the source (e.g., journal articles, edited book chapters).
Final checks
Check page order.
- Start each section on a new page.
- Arrange pages in the following order:
- Title page (page 1).
- Text (starts on page 2).
- Reference list (starts on a new page after the text).
Check headings
- Check that headings accurately reflect the content in each section.
- Start each main section with a Level 1 heading.
- Use Level 2 headings for subsections of the introduction.
- Use the same level of heading for sections of equal importance.
- Avoid having only one subsection within a section (have two or more, or none).
Check assignment instructions
- Remember that instructors’ guidelines supersede APA Style.
- Students should check their assignment guidelines or rubric for specific content to include in their papers and to make sure they are meeting assignment requirements.
Tips for better writing
- Ask for feedback on your paper from a classmate, writing center tutor, or instructor.
- Budget time to implement suggestions.
- Use spell-check and grammar-check to identify potential errors, and then manually check those flagged.
- Proofread the paper by reading it slowly and carefully aloud to yourself.
- Consult your university writing center if you need extra help.
About the author
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Undergraduate student resources
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MLA Style Guide: Formatting Your Paper
- Get Started Here
- When, Why, & How to Cite
- Formatting Your Paper
- Citations & Bibliography
- OWL Purdue - MLA Sample Paper
How do I Format My Paper?
Let's say your professor wants you to format in MLA style, and you have no idea how to do it. Where do you start? And why do you need to use a format anyway?
There are a few reasons why professors ask you to use a specific format. One reason is to provide consistency between papers while grading. Can you imagine what it would be like to grade 150 papers, and every single one is formatted differently? It would take them quite a bit of time to grade your paper! On top of that, they may be looking for specific things like citations, page numbers, certain paragraphs or names, etc., and using a consistent format helps them find what they looking for quickly and easily, resulting in a faster grade for you!
Another reason to learn a format is to prepare you for upper-division classes in your major. It's worth noting that every discipline has its formatting style preference, and learning a citation style like MLA, APA, or Chicago will give you an understanding of how basic style rules work.
Let's get started on the basic rules:
Your paper should be written using a standard (8.5x11 inch) sheet of paper with a common font such as Times New Roman. Some professors may request a different font, but Times New Roman is the most commonly accepted.
The entire document should be double-spaced, including the header and bibliography. You can easily double-space a paper by highlighting the entire document, then pressing the Ctrl button on your keyboard and pressing the 2 (Ctrl + 2).
Margins on the page's sides, top, and bottom are 1 inch. The only exception is with the page number and your name on the right-hand side of the header, which is 1/2 inch from the top of the page.
Pages should be numbered, along with your last name, in the top-right header of the paper.
- Your Name, Professor's Name, Class Name, and Date should be double-spaced on the first page of your paper in the upper left-hand corner, with a 1-inch margin from the top and left sides.
- The title of your paper should be centered, with no boldface, underlining, or italics, unless you include a title within your title.
- Indentations should be 1/2 inch in from the 1-inch font.
Now that you've read this far and have an idea of what you need to do, there is a big shortcut you can use. Word has a few templates for various paper formats, including MLA, APA, and others. To locate these templates, select 'new' under file and type MLA in the search box . Then select the template you wish to use. Download the Word document to your computer, open the template, and begin typing.
MLA Style Resources
- MLA Formatting and Style Guide From OWL Purdue University Writing Lab One of the most popular websites regarding citations, bibliographies and plagiarism. Use the search bar on the site to find answers to any obscure question about MLA.
![what to write in the header of an essay](https://libapps.s3.amazonaws.com/accounts/669/images/OWL_Search.png)
- MLA Style Center Direct from the Modern Language Association (MLA), this site offers help on how to do everything MLA. Offers tutorials, tips, and templates.
Other Useful Places
- Plagiarism by Vivian Harris Last Updated Jul 16, 2024 336 views this year
- English 1A and 1B by Susan Seifried Last Updated Jul 17, 2024 173 views this year
- Norco MLA 9th Style guide
- << Previous: When, Why, & How to Cite
- Next: Citations & Bibliography >>
- Last Updated: Jul 16, 2024 4:33 PM
- URL: https://norcocollege.libguides.com/MLAguide
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MLA Format: The Ultimate Guide to Correctly Formatting Your Paper
![what to write in the header of an essay Hannah Yang headshot](https://assets.prowritingaid.com/f/145420/512x512/813a592b93/hannah_yang.jpeg/m/)
By Hannah Yang
![what to write in the header of an essay the ultimate guide to MLA headings cover](https://marketing.prowritingaid.com/mla-headings-ultimate-guide.png)
So you need to create an MLA heading? You’re not alone—MLA format is one of the most common styles you’ll be expected to use when you’re writing a humanities paper, whether you’re a high-school student or a PhD candidate.
Read on to learn what a correct MLA heading looks like and how to create one that works like magic.
What Is an MLA Heading?
How do you format an mla heading, what is an mla header, how do you format an mla header, headings are only the beginning, commonly asked questions about mla headers, final thoughts.
The term “MLA heading” refers to five lines of important information that appear at the top of the first page.
Here are two examples of what an MLA heading could look like:
Hermione Granger
Professor McGonagall
Transfiguration—6th period
18 October 1991
“How to Turn A Matchstick into a Needle”
![what to write in the header of an essay MLA heading set out in Word](https://marketing.prowritingaid.com/MLA-heading-visial.png)
Harry J. Potter
Prof. Remus Lupin
Defense Against the Dark Arts
4 March 1994
“Why I Think My Professor Is a Werewolf”
Why are these headings important? Well, your teacher probably collects hundreds of papers every year. If any identifying information is missing from these assignments, grading and organizing them becomes much more of a challenge.
MLA headings ensure that all key information is presented upfront. With just a glance at the first page, your teacher can easily figure out who wrote this paper, when it was submitted, and which class it was written for.
![what to write in the header of an essay essay heading tip: save your heading as a template](https://marketing.prowritingaid.com/heading-template-tip.png)
What Are the Parts of an MLA Heading?
An MLA heading should include:
- Your instructor’s name
- The name of the class
- The date the assignment is due
- The title of your paper
Your instructor may give you specific guidelines about how much detail to include in each line. For example, some teachers may ask you to refer to them by their titles, while others may ask you to use their full names. If you haven’t been given any specific instructions, don’t sweat it—any option is fine as long as it’s clear and consistent.
Follow these formatting rules for your MLA heading:
- Start each piece of information on a separate line
- Don’t use any periods, commas, or other punctuation at the end of the line
- Keep the heading double-spaced, in the same font as the rest of your paper
- Left-align the first four lines (they should start at the 1-inch margin on the left side of your paper)
- Center the title (it should appear in the middle of your paper)
- Make sure your title is in title case
Title case means that major words should be capitalized and minor words should be lowercase. Major words include nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, pronouns, and any word longer than four letters. Minor words include conjunctions, prepositions, and articles.
Tip: Remember that Hermione’s “Society for the Promotion of Elfish Welfare” shortens to S.P.E.W., not S.F.T.P.O.E.W—only the major words are capitalized!
![what to write in the header of an essay graphic of the SPEW acronym highlighting major words](https://marketing.prowritingaid.com/how-to-use-title-case.png)
The MLA heading should only appear on the first page of your paper . But wait, you’re not done yet! In the rest of your paper, you need to include something called an MLA header at the top right corner of every page.
Think of the MLA header as a short, simple “You are here” marker that shows the reader where they are in the paper. By looking at the MLA headers, your instructor can easily understand where each page goes and which paper it belongs to.
What Are the Parts of an MLA Header?
The MLA header consists of your last name and page number.
For example, the second page of Hermione Granger’s essays would be labeled “Granger 2”, the third would be labeled “Granger 3”, and so on.
![what to write in the header of an essay MLA headings in Word](https://marketing.prowritingaid.com/mla-header-examples.png)
Creating MLA Headers in Microsoft Word
If you’re writing your paper in Microsoft Word, follow these steps:
- Click Insert
- Scroll down to Page Numbers and click on it
- Set the position to “Top of Page (Header)”
- Set the alignment to “Right”
- Make sure there’s no checkmark in the box for “Show number on first page”
- Click on the page number and type your last name before the number
- Set your font and font size to match the rest of your paper, if they don’t already
Creating MLA Headers in Google Docs
If you’re writing your paper in Google Docs, follow these steps:
- Scroll down to Page Numbers and hover over it
- Choose the option that sets your page number in the upper right corner
- Set your font and type size to match the rest of your paper, if they don’t already
Tip: After you create your first MLA header, save a template document for yourself that you can re-use next time, so you don’t have to follow these steps every time you write a paper!
Once you've got your headings sorted, it's time to start writing your paper. While we can't help you edit the content of your essay , ProWritingAid is here to make sure your grammar, spelling, and style is on point.
As well as checking your grammar, ProWritingAid also shows you your progress towards key goals like varied sentence structure, active voice, readability, and more. The target scores are all based on averages for real essays, so you'll always know if you're on track.
![what to write in the header of an essay screenshot of essay writing goals in prowritingaid software](https://marketing.prowritingaid.com/essaygoalsatthestart.png)
Ready to start receiving feedback before you submit your work?
IMAGES
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COMMENTS
An essay outline is a structured plan that organizes the main points and supporting details of an essay before writing. It guides the flow of ideas and ensures that each section of the essay is logically connected and coherent. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to build a strong essay outline. You'll discover how to define your ...
4. Hover over "Top of Page" and select "Plain Number 3". 5. For the MLA header, enter your last name along with the page number, both right-aligned. For the APA header, input the abbreviated version of the title in all capital letters and press the "Tab" key. MLA essay header example. APA essay header example.
Choose a pattern and stick with it throughout the entirety of the assignment. If you start off by having a heading for each paragraph, keep it that way until the end. Also, make sure the format remains the same. If your first heading is in the form of a question, all of the rest should be as well.
Revised on March 5, 2024. The first page of your MLA format paper starts with a four-line left-aligned header containing: Your full name. Your instructor's name. The course name and number. The date of submission. After the header, the title of the paper is centred on a new line, in title case. The header and title do not take any special ...
At the outset, make a plan for how you will deal with matters of capitalization, formatting and sequencing of headings. Headings at the same level should be formatted the same. For instance, "Section 2.2" should get the same treatment as "Section 4.1". They should also have parallel structure.
To write a header for an essay, include your last name and the page number in the upper right corner of every page. For MLA header format, place your last name and page number 0.5 inches from the top of the page, while for APA format, include a shortened version of your essay title (up to 50 characters) along with the page number. ...
Using Keywords and Key Phrases. If you can, use keywords or key phrases from the body paragraph in the header. This helps the reader connect the header to the content of the paragraph. For example, if "mini-summaries" is a key phrase in the paragraph, try to use it in the header. • Argumentative Essay.
Cite your MLA source. Start by applying these MLA format guidelines to your document: Use an easily readable font like 12 pt Times New Roman. Set 1 inch page margins. Use double line spacing. Include a ½" indent for new paragraphs. Include a four-line MLA heading on the first page. Center the paper's title.
This page contains guidelines on how to properly format the headings of your research paper using the MLA format. 1. The Opening Page: On the opening page or the first page, you would include the whole heading and your paper's title. The whole heading would include the following information: Your Name. Your Instructor's Name.
Include an empty line both above and below a heading. Avoid numbering or lettering your headings as lists (e.g., ( 1) The Beginning or (Z) The Ending ), unless this is conventional for the field you're writing in. Use title capitalization for headings (e.g., The First Letter of Each Major Word Is Capitalized ).
English Composition 1 Inserting Headers into Essays. According to the MLA (the Modern Language Association), each page of an essay, including the first page, should include the writer's last name and the page number inserted as a header in the upper right corner of the page, as illustrated below:
In the case of a group project, list all names of the contributors, giving each name its own line in the header, followed by the remaining MLA header requirements as described below. Format the remainder of the page as requested by the instructor. In the upper left-hand corner of the first page, list your name, your instructor's name, the ...
This article walks through the formatting steps needed to create an APA Style student paper, starting with a basic setup that applies to the entire paper (margins, font, line spacing, paragraph alignment and indentation, and page headers). It then covers formatting for the major sections of a student paper: the title page, the text, tables and ...
Your paper should be written using a standard (8.5x11 inch) sheet of paper with a common font such as Times New Roman. Some professors may request a different font, but Times New Roman is the most commonly accepted. The entire document should be double-spaced, including the header and bibliography. You can easily double-space a paper by ...
Creating MLA Headers in Microsoft Word. If you're writing your paper in Microsoft Word, follow these steps: Click Insert. Scroll down to Page Numbers and click on it. Set the position to "Top of Page (Header)". Set the alignment to "Right". Make sure there's no checkmark in the box for "Show number on first page".
MLA formatting rules. 1 The sources page is referred to as the works cited page. It appears at the end of the paper, after any endnotes. 2 The entire paper is double-spaced, including block quotations and the references on the works cited page. 3 Use block quotes for quotations that are four lines or longer.
There are five levels of heading in APA Style. Level 1 is the highest or main level of heading, Level 2 is a subheading of Level 1, Level 3 is a subheading of Level 2, and so on through Levels 4 and 5. The number of headings to use in a paper depends on the length and complexity of the work. If only one level of heading is needed, use Level 1.
Expert Answers. In formal writing such as essays and research papers, a header is a location at the top of the pages of the work that gives basic information about the paper. The information in a ...
Again, we'd recommend sticking with standard fonts and sizes—Times New Roman, 12-point is a standard workhorse. You can probably go with 1.5 or double spacing. Standard margins. Basically, show them you're ready to write in college by using the formatting you'll normally use in college.
Step 2: Pick one of the things you wrote down, flip your paper over, and write it at the top of your paper, like this: This is your thread, or a potential thread. Step 3: Underneath what you wrote down, name 5-6 values you could connect to this. These will serve as the beads of your essay.
MLA (Modern Language Association) style is most commonly used to write papers and cite sources within the liberal arts and humanities. This resource, updated to reflect the MLA Handbook (9th ed.), offers examples for the general format of MLA research papers, in-text citations, endnotes/footnotes, and the Works Cited page.
A header is the first element that the reader sees in an essay. Its importance is beyond question. So, if you are wondering what is a header in writing in high school or college, and how to write an essay header correctly - continue reading to close that unfortunate knowledge gap of yours.
Step 0: choose a structure. By "structure," we mean what you'll use to organize your essay's content in a way that helps your reader understand clearly and easily. We'll talk through two structural options below: "montage" and "narrative.". Some quick definitions:
In MLA format, your essay's title should be in title case. That means every principle word— words that aren't articles, prepositions, coordinating conjunctions, or the word "to" paired with an infinitive—is capitalized. The only exception to this is when one of these words is the first or last word in the essay's title.