How to MLA Format a Google Doc: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adele

Jun 24, 2025

How to MLA Format a Google Doc: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re a student, researcher, or writer, you’ve likely encountered MLA format-a widely used style guide for formatting academic papers in the humanities. Google Docs makes it easy to create professional-looking MLA-formatted documents without the hassle of complicated software. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to MLA format your Google Doc quickly and accurately.

Plus, if you ever want to turn your MLA paper into a fillable form or survey, Formswrite.com offers a simple 1-click solution to convert your Google Docs into interactive forms. It’s not a plugin, but a handy website that enhances your productivity. More on that later!

Step 1: Set the Correct Font and Size

MLA format requires a readable font like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri, sized at 12 points.

Open your Google Doc.
Click on the font dropdown in the toolbar and select **Times New Roman **(or your preferred MLA-approved font).
Set the font size to **12 **.

Step 2: Adjust the Margins

MLA style requires 1-inch margins on all sides.

Go to File > Page Setup.
Make sure all margins (top, bottom, left, right) are set to 1 inch.
Click OK.

Step 3: Set Double Spacing

Double-spacing is essential for MLA format.

Highlight all the text in your document (Ctrl + A or Cmd + A).
Click Format > Line spacing > Double.
Make sure there’s no extra spacing before or after paragraphs.

Step 4: Create a Header with Page Numbers

MLA requires a header with your last name and page number aligned to the right.

Go to Insert > Headers & Footers > Header.
Click **Options > Page numbers **and select the option with numbers on the top right.
Type your last name before the page number with a space (e.g., Smith 1).
The header should now show your last name and page number on every page.

Step 5: Add Your MLA Heading

At the top left of the first page, include your heading with the following details, each on its own line:

Your full name
Your instructor’s name
Course name or number
Date (Day Month Year format, e.g., 24 June 2025)

Make sure this heading is aligned to the left and double spaced.

Step 6: Center the Title

Below your heading, center your paper’s title.

Click **Center align **in the toolbar.
Type your title in Title Case (capitalize main words, no bold or underline).
Press Enter once to start your paper text left-aligned.

Step 7: Format In-text Citations and Works Cited

Use parenthetical citations within the text when referencing sources (e.g., (Smith 45)).
At the end of your document, add a new page titled **Works Cited **centered at the top.
List all your references alphabetically, with a hanging indent.

Bonus: Convert Your MLA Paper into a Fillable Form with Formswrite.com

Once your Google Doc is perfectly formatted, you might want to create a fillable form or survey based on its content-maybe for peer reviews or feedback. Formswrite.com lets you convert your Google Docs into interactive forms with just one click . Unlike plugins, Formswrite is a standalone website that connects seamlessly with Google Docs, saving you time and simplifying your workflow.

FAQ: MLA Formatting in Google Docs

Can I automate MLA formatting in Google Docs?

Google Docs doesn’t have a built-in MLA format template, but following the steps above manually ensures accuracy. You can also find free MLA templates online.

How do I add a hanging indent for the Works Cited page?

Highlight your citations, then go to** Format > Align & Indent > Indentation options and select Hanging** under Special Indent.

Does Formswrite.com work on all Google Docs?

Yes! Formswrite works with any Google Doc and converts it into a fillable form easily.

Is Formswrite a Google Docs plugin?

No, Formswrite is a website, not a plugin. It works by connecting to your Google Docs account to convert documents into forms.