How to Do a Title Page in MLA Format

Co-authored by Michelle Golden, PhD

Last Updated: September 22, 2020 Fact Checked

Many papers are written using MLA style. MLA style normally does not require a cover page because all of the important information is worked into the first page. However, some instructors do prefer a separate title page. In this case, use the following standards.

Title Page Help

Sample MLA Title Page

MLA Title Page Template

Method 1

Method 1 of 1:

Creating a Title Page

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1
Write the title about one third of the way down the page. The title should follow normal title capitalization standards: the first letter of each word should be capitalized with the exception of very short words such as articles or prepositions (e.g. the, and, of, or, a, an, in, to, for). Note that the very first word of the title should be capitalized, regardless of what kind of word it is.
- Do not punctuate your title. It does not need to have quotation marks around it, it should not be underlined, and it should not be in italics. If, however, there is a quotation or a reference to a longer work in your title, that should be punctuated accordingly.
- For example, "To Be or Not to Be:" An Analysis of Hamlet's Soliloquy contains a quote, while An Analysis of Inaction in Shakespeare's Hamlet contains the title of the play, which should be italicized.
Be sure to include your first and last name.

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You may want to include the section number as well as the name of the course.
Be sure to include the appropriate title, particularly if your instructor has a doctorate. For example, Dr. Sarah Smith or Dr. Smith.
MLA format generally calls for a European style date, with the day, then the month, then the year. For example, 2 February 2014.

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Which date do I put on my paper: the date I started, when I finished, or when I will turn it in?

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You should put the day that the paper is due, regardless of when you hand it in to your teacher or professor.

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How do I do one of these for college? Would it be the same?

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Yes, it would, as long as your instructor wants the essay written in MLA format and has no other specific requirements.

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Where would you put an image?

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Unless it was required by your teacher, do not put an image on the title page. It's not MLA format, and you may lose points for having one. If your teacher told you to include one, ask them for proper placement.

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Use a standard 12 point font for all writing.

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Use a standard 1 inch (2.5 cm) margin.

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Use a standard font with a serif, such as Times New Roman or Garamond.

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